Systems and methods for an improved ratcheting device including pivoting tooth

ABSTRACT

A ratchet device includes a ratchet wheel. The ratchet device further includes a first lever, the first lever rotatably interconnected with the ratchet wheel. The ratchet device further includes a second lever, the second lever rotatably interconnected with the ratchet wheel. The ratchet device further includes a first pivoting bracket, the first pivoting bracket pivotally interconnected with the first lever. The ratchet device further includes a second pivoting bracket, the second pivoting bracket pivotally interconnected with the second lever. The first pivoting bracket has a first position where the first pivoting bracket is rotated to engage the ratchet wheel and a second position where the first pivoting bracket is rotated to disengage from the ratchet wheel.

BACKGROUND

Many devices that are designed to secure straps and to induce tension instraps exist today. Current art in strap tensioning ratchet devicesreveals that a large portion of these devices utilize a singular design.These ratchet designs as such, implemented in various guises and in amultitude of shapes and sizes, suffers several maladies. Issues includethat releasing tension from the straps held by the device can befrustratingly difficult, the performance of the device can degradesignificantly over time, and the configurability of the device islimited. Furthermore, the size and weight of the device can become aliability, particularly for those devices that incorporate permanentlyattached hooks.

As shown in FIG. 35 Prior Art and FIG. 36 Prior Art, a typical prior artratchet device 400 is comprised of a chassis 402 and a rotating lever404, each having a sliding bracket 412, 414, where the sliding bracketssimultaneously engage a pair of ratchet wheels 406, positioned on twomatching hub crossbars 410, the hub crossbars having a semicircularshape in cross section. The ratchet wheels are identical in size andshape to each other, that being a disc with teeth 408 positioned aroundthe disc perimeter. The ratchet wheels are located on opposite ends ofthe hub crossbars with the hub crossbars gapped apart from each other bymeans of complimentary openings centrally located in the ratchet wheels.The ratchet wheels are also positioned between overlapping chassis andlever sidewalls. The two hub crossbars are constrained within circularopenings in the chassis and lever sidewalls such that the hub cross barsare free to rotate about their long axis within the circular openings.Springs 430, either compression or torsion, act on the sliding bracketsto induce and maintain contact of the blade portion 416 on each slidingbracket to a complimentary edge face on a singular tooth on each of theratchet wheels. The ratchet wheels and hub crossbars, in combination,comprise a singular unit and are secured positionally to one another bymeans of malleable wire-forms inserted through holes located near theends of the hub crossbars. The ends of the wire-forms being subsequentlydeformed preventing withdrawal of the hub crossbars from the chassis andlever. Often, large diameter washers are included to provide a barrierbetween the wire-form parts and the lever side walls.

When the lever of the ratchet device is rotated 185 with respect to thechassis, the sliding bracket secured to the lever engages a tooth oneach of the two ratchet wheels causing the ratchet wheels and the hubcrossbars to rotate as a unit within the circular openings in thechassis sidewalls. The sliding bracket in the chassis moves back andforth following the toothed profile of the ratchet wheels. When thedirection of the lever rotation is reversed, the sliding bracket in thechassis now engages a singular tooth on each of the two ratchet wheelspreventing rotation of the ratchet wheels and the hub crossbars, whilethe sliding bracket of the lever is free to follow the respective edgeprofile on the two ratchet wheels. This alternating rotational movementof the lever results in a ratchet action that rotates both ratchetwheels and both hub crossbars in a singular direction.

Inserting an end of webbing through the gap formed between the two hubcrossbars will cause the webbing to be wound onto the crossbars as thelever is rotated. As webbing is wound onto the hub crossbars, newlywound webbing will overlap the underlying webbing layer preventing thewebbing from slipping out of the device. Engagement of the blade portionof the chassis sliding bracket with a singular tooth on each ratchetwheel preserves the tension induced in the webbing and prevents the hubcrossbar and ratchet wheel combination from rotating in a direction thatwould release the tension from the webbing and the webbing from thedevice.

A typical ratchet device will have one end of a short length of webbing431 permanently attached to the ratchet device by means of a loop sewnin the webbing capturing a third cross bar 428 permanently secured tothe chassis. A hook 432, offered in various shapes and sizes, ispermanently affixed to the opposite end of the short webbing. A secondseparate and typically longer length of webbing, one end also containinga permanently attached hook 258, completes the components required toenable use of the ratchet device. A usable configuration of the deviceinvolves attaching each hook to separate anchor locations 253, 254inserting the free end of the longer length of webbing into the gapbetween the hub crossbars, drawing the webbing through the bars untilthe slack is removed from the webbing, and then tensioning the webbingby rotating the lever of the ratchet device in alternating directions185. Back and forth rotation of the lever is continued until the desiredlevel of tension is induced in the lengths of webbing connecting the twoanchor points. The length of the lever provides a mechanical advantagethat enables a significant amount of tension to be induced in thewebbing as the lever is rotated.

Tension release is more involved. To release tension, the slidingbracket secured to the lever is drawn back toward the free end of thelever using the index finger. This allows the lever to free-spin, torotate without engaging teeth on the ratchet wheels. After rotating thelever through an angular displacement of approximately 100 degrees, thesliding bracket secured to the lever encounters a radially raisedportion on the chassis sidewall 424. Releasing the lever sliding bracketat this position results in the sliding bracket coming into contact withthe raised landing on the chassis sidewall, which in turn prevents thesliding bracket on the lever from engaging with the teeth on the tworatchet wheels. As the lever is rotated further, the eccentric shapedends on the lever arms 418 begin to engage the blade ends 416 of thesliding bracket 412 constrained in the chassis 402, thus moving thesliding bracket outward radially with respect to the hub crossbars andthe ratchet wheels. As the lever is rotated approximately 170 degrees,the lever eccentric has rotated far enough to completely disengage thesliding bracket in the chassis from the teeth residing on the perimeterof the ratchet wheels. With the sliding bracket in the lever previouslydisengaged and now with the sliding bracket in the chassis disengaged,no means remain to prevent rotational movement of the hub crossbars andthe ratchet wheels. The existing tension in the strap will cause the hubcrossbars and ratchet wheels to rotate in the direction opposite thedirection from the prior ratcheting action, thus releasing storedtension from the webbing.

In most ratchet devices there is a notch 403 in the edge profile of thechassis sidewall that will engage the sliding bracket on the lever tolock the lever in place when the lever has been rotated to the full-openposition. This creates a rigid configuration between the lever andchassis while the hub crossbars and ratchet wheels remain free torotate, thus allowing the webbing to be pulled from the device. At lowerinduced tension levels this mechanism for releasing tension works wellenough. However, after repeated use or use near the rated working loadlimit, the components of most ratchet devices begin to wear and/ordeform such that removal of the webbing from the device becomesincreasing frustrating to make happen. In close confines with asurrounding structure, such as the bed area of a truck, the locked levercan impede rather than enhance removal of the webbing from the ratchetdevice.

Additionally, as the lever rotates toward the position for tensionrelease, even though the eccentric is pushing the chassis slidingbracket towards the release point, the force applied to rotate the leverend eccentric is compromised due to the poor mechanical advantageafforded the lever. At levels of high webbing tension, or with excessivedevice wear, it is not uncommon for the release action to begin to mimicthe action like that of pushing on a bow string of a bow and arrowapparatus. Lots of give in the direction perpendicular to the string, inthis case the webbing, such that the mechanical advantage gained fromthe length of the lever and the shape of the eccentric on the lever endis neutralized by the lack of restraint on the device. When releasingwebbing tension, this behavior may require the operator provide anadditional leverage advantage, by either physically limiting thedisplacement of the ratchet device, or possibly by inserting along-shafted screw driver between a hub crossbar and the lever to forcerotation of the lever with respect to the chassis. Both methods arecommonly used and both methods can pose a safety risk to the operator ofthe device.

In ratchet devices that incorporate sliding brackets, an area ofcomponent deformation that commonly occurs during the webbing tensionrelease action resides at the contact interface 433 between the levereccentric and the blade end of the chassis sliding bracket. This contactarea experiences a high level of localized stress within the device.When releasing tension from the device, the lever eccentric moves thechassis sliding bracket outward to disengage the sliding bracket fromthe ratchet wheel teeth. This particular part-to-part engagementtypically occurs on edge faces of both the sliding bracket and the twoeccentric shaped ends on the lever, and as such concentrates a highamount of force into a relatively small area. Inspection of well usedcurrent art ratchet devices, particularly those that utilize die-castlevers will show excessive wear and/or deformation at these locations ofthe device. Over time, the cumulative effect of these deformations willpermanently alter the ratchet device. The amount of travel induced inthe chassis sliding bracket by the eccentric shape on the lever ends mayno longer be sufficient to move the sliding bracket far enough todisengage the sliding bracket from the ratchet wheel teeth. At thispoint, tension release is accomplished by either cutting the webbing orusing a supplemental tool to force release of the chassis slidingbracket from the ratchet wheel teeth.

This failure mode occurs in ratchet devices that utilize slidingbrackets to actuate the ratcheting action. Attempts over the years byvarious manufactures to mitigate this concern has led to a proliferationof design solutions. For the most part however, these devices remainessentially the same, as does the failure behavior.

Typically, both lever and chassis side walls contain slots 420, 422which constrain the sliding brackets. These slots allow the slidingbrackets to move fore and aft within the slots. Also enabled in thesliding brackets, yet not relevant to the intended function of thedevice, is a side-to-side displacement and a rotational displacement,both occurring within the planes 426, 427 defined by opposing sidewallslots.

When the lever is rotated to induce webbing tension, the ends of theblade portion 416 of the sliding bracket constrained in the lever engagethe teeth on the ratchet wheels, rotating the ratchet wheels and the hubcrossbars. The blade ends of the sliding brackets in both the lever andthe chassis may be sufficiently sized to ensure contact with the ratchetwheel teeth, the chassis sidewall slots, the chassis sidewall edgeprofiles, and the lever sidewall slots. Furthermore, to accommodatepossible side-to-side and in-plane rotational movement of the slidingbrackets, the width of the sliding brackets may be increasedaccordingly.

Induced tension, resident in the webbing, forces the edge face of aratchet wheel tooth into the blade end portion of the sliding bracketwhile the sliding bracket is simultaneously pressed into the slot edgeof either the lever bracket or the chassis bracket. This action is likecutting a piece of paper with scissors, the paper in this case being theblade portions of the sliding brackets. This contact force isconcentrated into a small area on the blade face, making blade integritysolely dependent on the material properties and thickness of the bladematerial at the blade end. The width requirements previously noted, incombination with the added burden to provide sufficient clearance aroundwebbing configured in the device, precludes introducing blade stiffeninggeometries where they would help in preventing blade end deformation athigher force loads.

The possibility for both side-to-side translational movement andin-plane rotational movement of the sliding brackets creates anothercrippling disadvantage for current art ratchet devices. One that willresult in only one tooth on one ratchet wheel engaging the slidingbracket, or one tooth engaging fully and the one on the opposite sideengaging only partially. In either case, both ratchet wheels are nolonger fully engaged. Despite creating an unsafe condition, theimbalance in load sharing can easily deform the blade portion of thesliding bracket where it engages the ratchet wheel tooth. Subsequent useof the device is made difficult by the now deformed blade on the slidingbracket.

Another source for this misalignment, particularly in lower quality,lower load rated devices, is the chassis itself will twist about itslong axis while tension is being ratcheted into the webbing. Thisbehavior, analogous to the wringing of water from a wet towel, willresult in the chassis sliding bracket landing in an imbalanced loadsharing position with respect to the ratchet wheel teeth.

To mitigate misalignments in the sliding brackets, some manufacturersadd embossments 429 to the sliding brackets to keep the bracketscentered between the side walls of the lever or the sidewalls of thechassis. However, if the embossments are located too close to thechassis and lever sidewalls, the sliding brackets will bind, not closeenough and the sliding brackets rotate out of parallel as describedabove. Both effects are observed in current offerings of ratchetdevices. This is a design limitation of the sidewall slot/slidingbracket interaction of current art ratchet devices and is a source offrustration to those who use such devices.

To minimize device weight and create a distinctive appearance, somemanufacturers utilize aluminum or zinc alloy die-cast levers. Thesetypes of levers may, in lieu of open slots, incorporate specificgeometries to serve as channels or guides for the sliding bracket.However, the blade ends of the harder sliding bracket material tend togull and/or scrape away the softer die-cast material on the levereccentric located at the end of the lever. Repeated use at or nearworking load limits will compromise and eventually break the die-casteccentric surface, disabling the device and preventing release of theratcheted tension. In this condition, the means available to releasetension from the webbing is to either cut the webbing or force releaseof the chassis sliding bracket using a supplementary tool, often adangerous proposition.

Finally, when the compete configuration—device, straps, hooks (FIG. 35Prior Art)—is taken into consideration, additional disadvantages arisethat limit the overall effectiveness of the current art of ratchetdevices. As previously described, the ratchet device has as one anchorpoint, an attachment of a short length of webbing sewn to the device andto a hook. Such an arrangement limits where the ratchet device can bepositioned. Often less than ideal access is afforded the user either intensioning or in releasing tension from the ratchet device.Additionally, ratchet devices with permanently attached straps and hookscan be heavy, requiring special care to prevent damage to surroundingobjects when initially configuring the ratchet device, straps, andhooks.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The embodiments described herein provide means to induce and releasetension in webbing that avoid the disadvantages incurred with currentart ratchet devices. Additionally, features incorporated in theembodiments provide new means that enable multiple configurations ofstraps and hooks unavailable in the current art. Additionally, some ofthese features can be incorporated in other strap tensioning devices,such as cam-locks, providing similar new features in those devices aswell.

In one embodiment, a ratchet device includes a ratchet wheel. Theratchet device further includes a first lever, the first lever rotatablyinterconnected with the ratchet wheel. The ratchet device furtherincludes a second lever, the second lever rotatably interconnected withthe ratchet wheel. The ratchet device further includes a first pivotingbracket, the first pivoting bracket pivotally interconnected with thefirst lever. The ratchet device further includes a second pivotingbracket, the second pivoting bracket pivotally interconnected with thesecond lever. The first pivoting bracket has a first position where thefirst pivoting bracket is rotated to engage the ratchet wheel and asecond position where the first pivoting bracket is rotated to disengagefrom the ratchet wheel. Alternatively, the second pivoting bracket has athird position where the second pivoting bracket is rotated to engagethe ratchet wheel and a fourth position where the second pivotingbracket is rotated to disengage from the ratchet wheel. Optionally, whenthe first pivoting bracket is in the second position and the secondpivoting bracket is in the fourth position, the ratchet wheel freelyrotates. In one alternative, the first pivoting bracket is configured toengage the second pivoting bracket and when the first pivoting bracketand the second pivoting bracket are engaged, the first pivoting bracketis held in the second position and the second pivoting bracket is heldin the fourth position. In another alternative, the ratchet wheelincludes a plurality of teeth and the first pivoting bracket includes afirst tooth that is shaped to interface with the plurality of teeth.Alternatively, the second pivoting bracket includes a second tooth andthe second tooth is shaped to interface with the plurality of teeth. Inanother alternative, the first tooth is shaped to fit between a thirdand fourth tooth of the plurality of teeth, such that the first toothentirely fills the void between the third and fourth tooth.Alternatively, the first pivoting bracket includes a tab on a first endopposite the second end, the second end engaging the ratchet wheel, thetab shaped to engage an area in the second pivoting bracket such thatthe first and second pivoting bracket hold together when the ratchetwheel freely rotates. In one alternative, the ratchet device furtherincludes a capture assembly, the capture assembly configured to capturea flat strap in a secure fashion. Alternatively, the second leverincludes a first and second side plate, the capture assembly locatedbetween the first and second side plate. In another alternative, thecapture assembly includes a third side plate and a fourth side plate, afirst pin, a second pin, and a third pin, the first pin interconnectingthe first and second side plate and the third side plate, the second pininterconnecting the first and second side plate, the third side plate,and the fourth side plate, the third pin mounted on the fourth sideplate. Alternatively, the fourth side plate is interconnected to thesecond pin via a slotted opening allowing the fourth side plate torotate and slide about the second pin. In another alternative, the thirdside plate includes a slotted capture area, the slotted capture areaconfigured to removably capture the third pin when the fourth side plateis slid to a first end of the slotted opening. Alternatively, the thirdside plate further includes a curved area, adjacent to the slottedcapture area, oriented to guide the third pin. In another alternative, aflat strap oriented in a first gap between the first and second pin,around the third pin, and back through the first gap is held when thethird pin is in the slotted capture area.

In one embodiment, ratchet device includes a ratchet wheel and a firstlever, the first lever rotatably interconnected with the ratchet wheel.The ratchet device further includes a second lever, the second leverrotatably interconnected with the ratchet wheel. The ratchet devicefurther includes a first pivoting bracket, the first pivoting bracketpivotally interconnected with the first lever. The ratchet devicefurther includes a second pivoting bracket, the second pivoting bracketpivotally interconnected with the second lever. The first pivotingbracket has a first position where the first pivoting bracket is rotatedto engage the ratchet wheel and a second position where the firstpivoting bracket is rotated to disengage from the ratchet wheel. Thesecond pivoting bracket has a third position where the second pivotingbracket is rotated to engage the ratchet wheel and a fourth positionwhere the second pivoting bracket is rotated to disengage from theratchet wheel. Alternatively, the ratchet device further includes acapture assembly, the capture assembly configured to capture a flatstrap in a secure fashion, wherein the second lever includes a first andsecond side plate, the capture assembly located between the first andsecond side plate and the capture assembly includes a third side plate,a fourth side plate, a first pin, a second pin, and a third pin, thefirst pin interconnecting the first and second side plate and the thirdside plate, the second pin interconnecting the first and second sideplate, the third side plate, and the fourth side plate, the third pinmounted on the fourth side plate, the fourth side plate isinterconnected to the second pin via a slotted opening allowing thefourth side plate to rotate and slide about the second pin. In anotheralternative, the third side plate includes a slotted capture area, theslotted capture area configured to removably capture the third pin whenthe fourth side plate is slid to a first end of the slotted opening andthe third side plate further includes a curved area, adjacent to theslotted capture area, oriented to guide the third pin.

In one embodiment, a method of using a ratchet device includes providinga ratchet device. The ratchet device includes a ratchet wheel. Theratchet device further includes a first lever, the first lever rotatablyinterconnected with the ratchet wheel. The ratchet device furtherincludes a second lever, the second lever rotatably interconnected withthe ratchet wheel. The ratchet device further includes a first pivotingbracket, the first pivoting bracket pivotally interconnected with thefirst lever. The ratchet device further includes a second pivotingbracket, the second pivoting bracket pivotally interconnected with thesecond lever. The first pivoting bracket has a first position where thefirst pivoting bracket is rotated to engage the ratchet wheel and asecond position where the first pivoting bracket is rotated to disengagefrom the ratchet wheel. Alternatively, the second pivoting bracket has athird position where the second pivoting bracket is rotated to engagethe ratchet wheel and a fourth position where the second pivotingbracket is rotated to disengage from the ratchet wheel. The methodfurther includes inserting a flat strap to the ratchet device. Themethod further includes ratcheting the ratchet device to increasetension by moving at least one of the first and second lever. The methodfurther includes pivoting the first and second pivoting bracket torelease tension on the flat strap and removing the flat strap.Alternatively, the ratchet device further includes a capture assembly,the capture assembly configured to capture a flat strap in a securefashion, wherein the second lever includes a first and second sideplate, the capture assembly located between the first and second sideplate and the capture assembly includes a third side plate, a fourthside plate, a first pin, a second pin, and a third pin, the first pininterconnecting the first and second side plate and the third sideplate, the second pin interconnecting the first and second side plate,the third side plate, and the fourth side plate, the third pin mountedon the fourth side plate, the fourth side plate is interconnected to thesecond pin via a slotted opening allowing the fourth side plate torotate and slide about the second pin.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of an Enhanced Ratchet;

FIG. 2a shows an isometric view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2b shows an isometric view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows an exploded assembly view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG.1;

FIG. 4a shows an isometric view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 withthe lever in an open position;

FIG. 4b shows the ratchet wheels, hub crossbars, two shim washers, twowire-from locks, and portions of the lever and the chassis sidewalls ofthe Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4c shows an exploded view of FIG. 4b from a different viewingangle;

FIG. 5 shows a section view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 throughthe longitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 shows a section view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 throughthe longitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b show isometric views the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1positioned to initiate tension release from webbing configured in theembodiment;

FIG. 8a and FIG. 8b show isometric views Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 atthe end of the tension release action;

FIG. 9a and FIG. 9b show an isometric view and a section view of thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1, with Enhanced Ratchet ofFIG. 1 positioned as in FIG. 7a and FIG. 7 b;

FIG. 10a and FIG. 10b show an isometric view and a section view of thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1, with Enhanced Ratchet ofFIG. 1 positioned as in FIG. 8a and FIG. 8 b;

FIG. 11a through FIG. 11d show the capture-frame assembly in four uniquepositions; locked, unlocked, open, and non-restrained, respectively;

FIG. 12a through FIG. 12d repeats FIG. 11a through FIG. 11d shown asisometric views with the addition of a single layer of web;

FIG. 13 shows a section view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 throughthe longitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1;

FIG. 14a shows a section view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 throughthe longitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1;

FIG. 14b shows a section view of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 throughthe longitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1;

FIG. 15a through FIG. 15h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression removably securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1to a section of webbing by means of the capture-frame assembly;

FIG. 16a through FIG. 16g show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression removably securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1to a section of webbing;

FIG. 17a through FIG. 17d show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for configuring webbing in the ratchet tensioningportion of the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1, and subsequently using thelever of Enhanced Ratchet to induce tension into the webbing;

FIG. 18a through FIG. 18e show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for releasing tension from webbing configured inthe Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 19a through FIG. 19i show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 on astrap, said strap having one end containing a sewn loop;

FIG. 20a through FIG. 20h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 on alength of webbing;

FIG. 21a through FIG. 21h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 on theend of a strap containing a sewn end-loop;

FIG. 22a through FIG. 22f show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 on theend of a length of webbing;

FIG. 23a through FIG. 23h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 to ashort strap containing a sewn end-loop secured to an anchor location,and subsequently forming a fixed-end configuration between two anchorlocations using a second length of webbing containing a permanentlyaffixed hook;

FIG. 24a through FIG. 24h show the same sequence from FIG. 23 with theshort strap being removably secured to a hook;

FIG. 25a through FIG. 25f show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 to ashort length of webbing tethered to an anchor location, and subsequentlyforming a fixed-end configuration between two anchor locations using asecond length of webbing containing a permanently affixed hook;

FIG. 26a through FIG. 26h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing an embodiment of an Enhanced Ratchet;

FIG. 27a through FIG. 27e show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 to astrap containing a sewn end-loop;

FIG. 28a through FIG. 28f show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing the Enhanced Ratchet of FIG. 1 to astrap containing a sewn end-loop, and subsequently forming a fixed-endconfiguration between two anchor locations using a second strapcontaining a permanently affixed hook;

FIG. 29a through FIG. 29f show the same sequence from FIG. 28 with theshort strap removably securing a hook;

FIG. 30a and FIG. 30b show an alternative embodiment in both an open andwebbing locked position where the capture-frame assembly of the EnhancedRatchet of FIG. 1 is replaced with an ‘s-shaped’ wire-form to lock theembodiment to the webbing;

FIG. 31a and FIG. 31b show an alternative embodiment in both an open andwebbing locked position where the capture-frame assembly of the EnhancedRatchet of FIG. 1 is replaced with a die-cast component utilizing aseparate capture ring and sidewall embossments to lock the embodiment tothe webbing;

FIG. 32a and FIG. 32b show an alternative embodiment in both an open andwebbing locked position where the capture-frame assembly of the EnhancedRatchet of FIG. 1 is replaced with a formed sheet metal part utilizing aseparate capture ring and cross bar to lock the embodiment to thewebbing;

FIG. 33 shows an isometric view of an alternative embodiment thatincorporates a camlock with the capture-frame assembly in lieu of theratchet portion of Enhanced Ratchet;

FIG. 34 shows an isometric view of the alternative embodiment from FIG.33 configured with webbing to form a fixed-end configuration;

FIG. 35-38 b show prior art ratchets;

FIGS. 39a, 39b , and 40 show another embodiment of a chassis pivotingpawl bracket.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the various figures and description, the parts and aspects arelabeled as follows, for purely exemplary purposes.

Drawing Reference Numerals

-   -   100 Enhanced Ratchet    -   100′ Enhanced Ratchet 100    -   101 chassis sidewall A    -   101′ portion of chassis sidewall A 101 in common with a Prior        Art ratchet device chassis    -   102 chassis sidewall B    -   102′ portion of chassis sidewall B 102 in common with a Prior        Art ratchet device chassis    -   103 circular opening, chassis sidewall A and B    -   104 circular opening, chassis sidewall A and B    -   105 circular opening, chassis sidewall A and B    -   106 circular opening, chassis sidewall A and B    -   107 circular opening, chassis sidewall A and B    -   108 circular opening, chassis sidewall A and B    -   109 alternate chassis for Enhanced Ratchet 100    -   110 chassis for alternative chassis configuration 360    -   111 swaged lower shoulder pin    -   112 swaged lower shoulder pin    -   113 swaged lower shoulder pin    -   114 gap between the two swaged lower shoulder pins, 112 and 113    -   115 gap between the swaged lower shoulder pin 113 and the center        swaged shoulder pin 173    -   117 circular opening, chassis sidewall A and B    -   118 circular opening, chassis pivoting pawl bracket sidewall    -   119 pin or length of wire that prevents operation of Enhanced        Ratchet    -   121 lever    -   121′ portion of lever 121 in common with a Prior Art ratchet        device lever    -   122 lever sidewall    -   123 circular opening, lever sidewall    -   124 circular opening, lever sidewall    -   125 circular opening, lever sidewall    -   127 recess in lever handle    -   128 circular embossment on side-plate B    -   129 lever handle    -   131 ratchet wheel    -   132 ratchet wheel tooth    -   133 opening through ratchet wheel    -   134 hub crossbar    -   135 transverse opening    -   136 long axis of hub crossbar    -   137 gap between constrained hub crossbars    -   138 center cross member    -   139 edge face    -   141 chassis pivoting pawl bracket    -   142 sidewall    -   143 tooth    -   144 circular opening    -   147 cutout    -   148 relief edge    -   149 chassis pivoting pawl bracket for alternative chassis        configuration 360    -   151 lever pivoting pawl bracket    -   152 sidewall    -   153 tooth    -   154 circular opening    -   155 tab    -   156 semi-pierced embossment    -   158 opening along edge    -   159 opening    -   161 liner    -   162 standing support    -   163 circular opening    -   164 thumb edge    -   165 raised area    -   166 raised area    -   168 direction of travel, side-plate A    -   169 arm support    -   170 capture-frame assembly    -   171 side-plate A    -   172 side-plate B    -   1172 curved edge of side-plate B    -   173 swaged center shoulder pin    -   174 circular opening side-plate B    -   175 free-standing post    -   176 slotted opening, side-plate A    -   1176 end of slotted opening    -   177 open slot, side-plate B    -   178 circular opening, side-plate A    -   179 circular opening, side-plate B    -   180 locked position, capture-frame assembly    -   181 unlocked position, capture-frame assembly    -   182 open position, capture-frame assembly    -   183 non-restrained position, capture-frame assembly    -   184 direction of travel, embodiment    -   185 direction of travel, lever    -   186 direction of travel, lever pivoting pawl bracket    -   187 direction of travel, chassis pivoting pawl bracket    -   188 direction of travel, side-plate A    -   189 direction of travel, ratchet wheels/hub crossbars    -   190 direction of travel, lever, to execute release of ratchet        induced webbing tension    -   191 swaged pivot pin, chassis pawl bracket    -   192 swaged pivot pin, lever pawl bracket    -   193 swaged pin, spring stop    -   194 torsion spring, chassis pivoting pawl bracket    -   195 torsion spring, lever pivoting pawl bracket    -   196 shim washer    -   197 wire-form lock    -   198 bottom shield    -   199 webbing guide    -   201 coil spring for alternative chassis configuration 360    -   240 section of webbing    -   241 lower tensioned underlying section of webbing    -   242 higher tensioned overlying section of webbing    -   250 length of webbing    -   251 length of webbing with sewn end loop    -   252 short length of webbing with sewn end loop    -   253 section of a cylinder representing a fixed anchor location    -   254 section of a cylinder representing a fixed anchor location    -   255 S-hook    -   256 fixed-end configuration    -   257 loop configuration    -   258 long length of webbing with sewn-on S-hook    -   259 section of a cylinder representing a fixed anchor location    -   284 direction of travel prevented, embodiment    -   300 Alternative Embodiment    -   320 Alternative Enhanced Ratchet with alternative chassis        configuration    -   360 alternative chassis configuration    -   380 Camlock device incorporating a capture frame assembly 170    -   400 Current Art generic style ratchet device    -   402 chassis    -   403 notch in chassis sidewall    -   404 lever    -   406 ratchet wheel    -   408 ratchet wheel teeth    -   410 hub crossbar    -   412 chassis sliding bracket    -   414 lever sliding bracket    -   416 flat blade portion of sliding bracket    -   418 eccentric shaped end of the lever    -   420 chassis sidewall slot    -   422 lever sidewall slot    -   424 radially raise edge on the chassis sidewall    -   426 plane formed between slots on opposing chassis sidewalls    -   427 plane formed between slots on opposing lever sidewalls    -   428 third cross bar    -   429 embossment    -   430 spring    -   431 sewn-on webbing length    -   432 sewn-on hook    -   433 contact area between lever end eccentric and blade end of        sliding bracket    -   435 hybrid chassis    -   434 sewn on strap, Prior Art device    -   501 direction arrow    -   510 symbol indicating direction and relative magnitude of a        reaction force F arising from induced ratchet tension, being one        half the magnitude of the force labeled 515    -   515 symbol indicating direction and relative magnitude of a        reaction force 2F arising from induced ratchet tension, being        twice the magnitude of the force labeled 51    -   3000 Alternative capture frame    -   3010 s-shaped capture bar    -   3020 first capture notch    -   3030 second capture notch    -   3110 sidewall embossments    -   3175 floating post    -   3220 separate capture ring    -   3210 cross bar    -   3310 camlock    -   3320 press area

Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to betaken as a limitation on the embodiments of Systems and Methods for anImproved Ratcheting Device Including Pivoting Tooth (Enhanced Ratchet).In many embodiments of an Enhanced Ratchet, the device includes a firstpivoting tooth that interfaces with a ratchet wheel. This is in sharpcontrast to many prior art devices that utilize sliding brackets tointerface with the ratchet wheel. In many embodiments, the firstpivoting tooth is mounted on a first pivoting bracket. This firstpivoting bracket allows for the first pivoting tooth to pivot away fromthe ratchet wheel, resulting in increased performance and wear to theEnhanced Ratchet. In many embodiments, the device additionally includesa second pivoting tooth that interfaces with the ratchet wheel. In manyembodiments, the second pivoting tooth is mounted on a second pivotingbracket. This second pivoting bracket allows for the second pivotingtooth to pivot away from the ratchet wheel. The pivoting brackets aremounted on corresponding lever arms, allowing the brackets and thereforethe teeth to rotate away from the ratchet wheel and therefore turn,providing for a strap to be tensioned. Additionally, in many embodimentsthe teeth of the ratchet wheel have a rounded and complementary shape tothe first and second pivoting tooth, such that when the levers arms aremoved in a first rotational direction, a first one of the first andsecond pivoting tooth flexes back and ratchets and when the levers armsare moved in a second rotational direction, a second one of the firstand second pivoting tooth flexes back and ratchets. This methodology ofratcheting follows the curved surfaces of the ratchet wheel, such thatwhen the first or second tooth ratchets, it slides smoothly on theratchet wheel and approximately moves along the shape of the ratchetwheel.

Embodiments of the Enhanced Ratchet have many advantages and features.Some embodiments herein provide a ratchet device that effectivelydoubles the tension inducing capability of the device when compared tosimilar sized current art ratchet devices. Some embodiments enabledevice attachment and detachment anywhere along a strap withoutrequiring access to either end of the strap. Some embodiments permitrouting of the strap prior to attaching and positioning the ratchetdevice on the strap. Some embodiments enable but do not require the useof anchor hooks at the strap ends. In using materials similar to thosefound in current art ratchet devices, some embodiments provide a moredurable and less damage prone interface at the load bearing locations ofthe device. Some embodiments afford a reliable tension release actionsuitable for releasing high tension levels while providing convenientaccess to the strap to aid in removal of the strap. These and otherbenefits of one or more aspects will become apparent from aconsideration of the ensuing description and accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of Enhanced Ratchet 100. FIG. 1 shows anisometric view of the Enhanced Ratchet 100 in a closed position. In FIG.1, cross section line A is shown. Additionally, pin 119 is shown. Pin119 may be used to lock Enhanced Ratchet in an inoperable position forsale or transport. Essentially, Pin 119 locks pawl bracket 141 in placewhich prevents ratchet wheel 131 from turning, locking pawl bracket 141to the rest of the body of the device.

FIG. 2a shows an isometric view of Enhanced Ratchet 100 with acapture-frame assembly and a lever in open positions. Arrows indicaterelative directions of movement for the lever, capture-frame assembly, alever pivoting pawl bracket, a chassis pivoting pawl bracket, tworatchet wheels, and two hub crossbars. In this view numerous importantfeatures are visible. First, it is visible in this view that the ratchetsystem has two pivoting/rotating brackets, one which rotates in thedirection of travel 186 and one that rotates in the direction of travel187. The rotation of these two brackets, chassis pivoting pawl bracket141 and lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 greatly enhance the operation ofthe device. This is because their rotation provides for a smoothratcheting along and/or release from ratchet wheel 131. This greatlyincreases the usability and performance of the device. Also, visiblehere is the capture-frame assembly 170. This part of Enhanced Ratchet isimportant to the operation of the device, since it offers an attachmentarea that allows for fixed and releasable interconnection to the end ofa flat strap or along a flat strap, providing the user the opportunityto use the device without any need to tie the flat strap. FIG. 2b showsanother view of Enhanced Ratchet 100 in an open position.

FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of Enhanced Ratchet 100. In this view,various details of the device are visible. Many things in this view areimportant, some of which will be explained in more detail below. One ofmany important aspects, is the shape of the ratchet wheel teeth 132 inrelation to the shape of the teeth 153 of the lever pivoting pawlbracket 151 and the teeth 143 of the pivoting pawl bracket 141. Theteeth have a smooth and complementary shape, enabling them to slidesmoothly over each other. Additionally, it is important to note that thetorsion spring 194, 195 are used to provide rotational tension and forceto the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 and the pivoting pawl bracket141. These springs are only exemplary of course and other types andlocations of springs may be utilized. For instance, a coil spring may belocated between the pivoting brackets and braced against the frame toprovide rotational force. This is only one example, and many will occurto those skilled in the art. In addition, the form factors shown here,and their relative sizes are only exemplary, and many differentembodiments may utilize different size pieces and configurations.

FIG. 4a shows an open view of Enhanced Ratchet 100. FIG. 4b shows theratchet wheels 131, hub crossbars 134, two shim washers 196, twowire-form locks 197, and portions of the lever and the chassis sidewallsfrom FIG. 4a that the Enhanced Ratchet 100 would be similar with a priorart ratchet device FIG. 36 Prior Art. Note that front portion 101′ and102′ do not really exist in Enhanced Ratchet 100, since these areas formpart of the sidewalls of the chassis. Additionally, although theEnhanced Ratchet 100 may have ratchet wheels like prior art devices, theshape of the gearing/teeth may not be found in prior art devices. Notethat the broken line areas are shown to depict parts not in common. FIG.4c shows an exploded view of FIG. 4b from a different viewing angle.

FIG. 5 shows a section view of Enhanced Ratchet 100 through thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1. The lever pivoting pawlbracket 151 is partially opened and enables lever 121 to free-spin. Thismakes it clear, in the embodiment shown, lever 121 is braced againstratchet wheel via lever pivoting pawl bracket 151. When lever pivotingpawl bracket 151 is pivoted away, lever 121 may free spin in relation toratchet wheel 131. Additionally, to improve visibility of the ratchetwheel details, part of the chassis sidewall has been cut away near theratchet wheels. The position of the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 asshown preserves ratchet tension induced in the webbing. Chassis pivotingpawl bracket 141 prevents chassis sidewall 101, 102 from free spinningin respect to ratchet wheel 131. No webbing is shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 shows a section view of Enhanced Ratchet 100 through thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1. The lever pivoting pawlbracket 151 is positioned to induce tension in webbing as the lever isrotated. A tooth 153 on the lever pivoting pawl bracket engages a tooth132 residing on the perimeter on the ratchet wheel 131. Additionally, toimprove visibility of the ratchet wheel 131 details, part of the chassissidewall has been cut away near the ratchet wheels. The position of thechassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 as shown preserves ratchet tensioninduced in the webbing. No webbing is shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b show isometric views of Enhanced Ratchet 100positioned to initiate tension release from webbing configured in theembodiment. Direction of lever travel to execute tension release is alsoshown. No webbing is shown in FIG. 7a or FIG. 7b . In theseconfigurations, lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 is rotated and engagedwith chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141, such that lever pivoting pawlbracket 151 pushes chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 into a positionrotated away from ratchet wheel 131 and chassis pivoting pawl bracket141 holds lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 in a rotated position. In sucha configuration, neither bracket is engaged with ratchet wheel 131 andratchet wheel 131 may rotate freely.

FIG. 8a and FIG. 8b show isometric views of Enhanced Ratchet 100 at theend of the tension release action. Note relative positions of the lever,chassis, and lever pivoting pawl bracket. In this position, the leverpivoting pawl bracket 151 has moved the chassis pivoting pawl bracket141 away from the ratchet wheels 131, disengaging the chassis pivotingpawl bracket 141 from the ratchet wheels. The hub crossbars 134 are nowfree to rotate in either direction allowing webbing configured in theembodiment to be easily withdrawn from the hub crossbars 134. No webbingis shown in FIG. 8a or FIG. 8 b.

FIG. 9a and FIG. 9b show an isometric view and a section view of thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1, with Enhanced Ratchet 100positioned as in FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b . Note the engagement of thechassis pivoting pawl bracket tooth 143 with the ratchet wheel tooth132. Also note the complementary structure of the teeth, where the voidof the tooth 132 is completely filled by tooth 143. No webbing is shownin FIG. 9a or FIG. 9 b.

FIG. 10a and FIG. 10b show an isometric view and a section view of thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1, with Enhanced Ratchet 100positioned as in FIG. 8a and FIG. 8b . Note the complete disengagementof both the chassis pivoting pawl bracket tooth 143 and the leverpivoting pawl bracket tooth 153 from the ratchet wheel teeth 132. Thelever pivoting pawl bracket 151 is disengaged from the ratchet wheels131 before the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 is disengaged. Usingthe back end of the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 (tab 155) as themechanism to disengage the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 from theratchet wheels 131 ensures the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 willdisengage first. No webbing is shown in FIG. 10a or FIG. 10 b.

FIG. 11a through FIG. 11d show the capture-frame assembly in four uniquepositions; locked, unlocked, open, and non-restrained, respectively. TheFigures represent section views of Enhanced Ratchet 100 through thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1. No webbing is shownconfigured in the capture-frame assembly.

FIG. 12a through FIG. 12d repeats FIG. 11a through FIG. 11d shown asisometric views with the addition of a single layer of webbing 240configured in the capture-frame assembly. This would be representativeof single strap, fixed end configuration (FIG. 19). Note thecapture-frame assembly in FIG. 12d allows free movement of EnhancedRatchet 100 along the webbing in either direction.

FIG. 13 shows a section view of Enhanced Ratchet 100 through thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1. The embodiment is removablysecured to a section of webbing. The capture-frame assembly is shown ina locked position. Enhanced Ratchet 100 is prevented from moving alongthe webbing in the direction indicated by the arrow whenever tension inan overlying section of webbing configured in the embodiment is greaterthan the tension in an underlying section of webbing. In this instance,the higher tensioned webbing overlying the lower tensioned webbingoccurs at the center shoulder pin of the capture-frame assembly.

Enhanced Ratchet is not prevented from movement along the webbing in theopposite direction. Movement, or lack of movement, in the oppositedirection is inconsequential to the proper operation of the embodiment.If thick or stiff webbing is used with the embodiment, movement in theopposite direction may be hindered.

FIG. 14a shows a section view of Enhanced Ratchet 100 through thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1. The embodiment is removablysecured to the webbing. The capture-frame assembly is shown in a lockedposition with webbing configured in Enhanced Ratchet in a tetheredanchor configuration (FIG. 25). The free ends of the webbing are trappedbetween the load bearing sections of webbing and the forward positionedswaged lower shoulder pin. Is this configuration, the embodiment isprevented from moving in the direction indicated by the arrow. Thehigher tensioned webbing overlying the lower tensioned webbing occurs atthe swaged lower shoulder pin where the tethered anchor webbing entersand exits Enhanced Ratchet through the gap formed between the two swagedlower shoulder pins.

FIG. 14b shows a section view of Enhanced Ratchet 100 through thelongitudinal plane AA as defined in FIG. 1. The embodiment is removablysecured to the webbing. The capture-frame assembly is shown in a lockedposition with webbing configured in the embodiment in a tethered anchorconfiguration where the free ends of the webbing are not trapped betweenthe load bearing sections of webbing and the forward positioned swagedlower shoulder pin. In this configuration, the embodiment is preventedfrom moving along the webbing in the direction indicated by the arrow.The higher tensioned webbing overlying the lower tensioned webbingoccurs at the center shoulder pin of the capture-frame assembly.

FIG. 15a through FIG. 15h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression removably securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 to asection of webbing by means of the capture-frame assembly. Only thecapture-frame portion of the embodiment and the front end of the chassissidewalls A and B are shown. When the capture-frame assembly is in thelocked position, as shown in FIG. 15h and FIG. 13, movement of EnhancedRatchet along the webbing in the direction indicated by the arrow isprevented. When the capture-frame assembly is in the non-restrictedposition, as shown in FIG. 15e and FIG. 12d , movement of the embodimentin either direction along the webbing is enabled.

FIG. 16a through FIG. 16g show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression removably securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 to asection of webbing. Access to the ends of the webbing is not required insecuring the Enhanced Ratchet to the webbing. The Enhanced Ratchet issecured to the webbing by means of the capture-frame assembly. TheEnhanced Ratchet is removed from the webbing by reversing theprogression shown. To remove the Enhanced Ratchet from the webbing,tension in the webbing must first be released. FIG. 16g shows theEnhanced Ratchet secured to the webbing and the capture-frame assemblyin the locked position, thus preventing movement of the embodiment alongthe webbing in the direction indicated by the arrow.

FIG. 17a through FIG. 17d show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for configuring webbing in the ratchet tensioningportion of Enhanced Ratchet 100, and subsequently using the lever ofEnhanced Ratchet to induce tension into the webbing. Reaction forces atthe anchor locations 2F are twice the tension force F induced by theratchet portion of Enhanced Ratchet 100.

FIG. 18a through FIG. 18e show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for releasing tension from webbing configured inEnhanced Ratchet 100. The tension release action requires one-hand,simultaneously thumb-flipping the lever pivoting pawl bracket whilepositioning the lever and lever pivoting pawl bracket into a matedposition with the chassis pivoting pawl bracket. Webbing tension releaseis then accomplished by drawing the lever and chassis together. Themechanical advantage afforded by the lever and the two pivoting pawlbracket geometries require only a modest input of force to releasehundreds of pounds of induced webbing tension, all easily accomplishedusing a single hand.

FIG. 19a through FIG. 19i show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 on a strap, saidstrap having one end containing a sewn loop. The progression depicts afixed-end configuration, subsequently tensioned by means of EnhancedRatchet 100. A fixed-end configuration is comprised of a strap spanninga distance between two anchor locations, with the strap affixed in somemanner at each anchor location. Unlike current art ratchet devices, asingle removably attached strap is used, allowing Enhanced Ratchet 100to be positioned anywhere along the length of the strap.

FIG. 20a through FIG. 20h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 on a length ofwebbing. Neither end of the webbing contains any type of treatment;sewn-on hook, sewn end-loop, or otherwise. The progression depicts afixed-end configuration with Enhanced Ratchet 100 used to draw tensioninto webbing spanning the distance between two anchor locations. Thisconfiguration, using a single detachable strap without end treatments,is not possible using current art ratchet devices. Enhanced Ratchet 100can be attached anywhere along the length of the webbing.

FIG. 21a through FIG. 21h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 on the end of astrap containing a sewn end-loop. The embodiment with the attached strapis then configured in a loop configuration spanning three anchorlocations. The embodiment and strap are the same as used in FIG. 19,thus illustrating the versatility of the embodiment in creating multipleconfigurations. Current art ratchet devices are typically manufacturedto function solely in either a fixed-end or a loop configuration.

FIG. 22a through FIG. 22f show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 on the end of alength of webbing. The end of the webbing does not contain endtreatments. The embodiment with the attached webbing is then configuredin a loop configuration spanning three anchor locations. The embodimentand webbing are the same as used in FIG. 20, thus illustrating theversatility of the embodiment in creating multiple configurations usinginterchangeable straps of varying lengths. Current art ratchet devicescannot be used independent of the permanently attached strap with whichthey are manufactured.

FIG. 23a through FIG. 23h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 to a short strapcontaining a sewn end-loop secured to an anchor location, andsubsequently forming a fixed-end configuration between two anchorlocations using a second length of webbing containing a permanentlyaffixed hook. The short strap can be sized to an appropriate length bestsuited to the application. Enhanced Ratchet 100 can be attached to theshort strap at any location along the strap. Note, the use of aremovably attached strap enables the strap and first embodimentcombination to be secured to a variety of anchor locations thatotherwise could prove unsuitable for a sewn-on strap containing asewn-on hook. This type of connection is referred to as a tetheredanchor.

FIG. 24a through FIG. 24h show the same sequence from FIG. 23 with theshort strap being removably secured to a hook. The configuration shownreplicates the configuration predominantly used by prior art ratchetdevices (FIG. 35 Prior Art), the primary difference being EnhancedRatchet 100 is not permanently attached to either the hook or theshorter strap, thus preserving its ability to be used in otherconfigurations.

FIG. 25a through FIG. 25f show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 to a shortlength of webbing tethered to an anchor location, and subsequentlyforming a fixed-end configuration between two anchor locations using asecond length of webbing containing a permanently affixed hook. Thetethered anchor attachment affords a high degree of versatility whensecuring to an anchor location. Such anchoring options are unavailablein the current art of ratchet devices which utilize a permanentlyaffixed anchor strap.

FIG. 26a through FIG. 26h show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 to a length ofwebbing containing a sewn end-loop and two removably affixed S-hooks,subsequently anchored between two fixed positions forming a fixed-endconfiguration. The sequence shown is similar to the sequence depicted inFIG. 24, the difference being, instead of two straps, a single strap isused. The induced stress in the ratchet portion of the embodiment 100 iscomparable to that of a current art device, yet the magnitude of thereaction force at the anchor locations is effectively doubled (FIG. 17d, FIG. 35d Prior Art). This represents a significant advantage over thecurrent art.

FIG. 27a through FIG. 27e show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 to a strapcontaining a sewn end-loop. Before the strap is secured to EnhancedRatchet, the end containing a sewn end-loop is routed around an anchorpoint then doubled back onto itself. Both the sewn end-loop andoverlying strap are then secured by the capture-frame assembly. The freeend of the strap exiting the bottom of Enhanced Ratchet 100 is routedaround a second distant anchor point before being reintroduced into theratchet portion of Enhanced Ratchet. Compared to FIG. 19, thisconfiguration effectively doubles the load bearing capacity of the strapconfigured in the device. Enhanced Ratchet 100 can be attached anywherealong the length of the strap.

FIG. 28a through FIG. 28f show a sequence of isometric views depicting astep-wise progression for securing Enhanced Ratchet 100 to a strapcontaining a sewn end-loop, and subsequently forming a fixed-endconfiguration between two anchor locations using a second strapcontaining a permanently affixed hook. The initial steps of theprogression are similar to that of FIG. 27, the difference being theshort strap forms a tethered anchor. This affords the user an option ofusing lighter weight webbing for the tethered anchor strap withoutsacrificing load bearing capacity at the tethered anchor. Note however,the doubling effect of the ratchet action as described in other Figures(FIG. 27) is not operative in this configuration. The configuration isfunctionally similar to the typical configuration used by current artdevices.

FIG. 29a through FIG. 29f show the same sequence from FIG. 28 with theshort strap removably securing a hook. This configuration closelymatches the ratchet tensioning capacity and anchor configuration ofcurrent art devices (FIG. 35 Prior Art). However, in contrast to currentart devices that are constrained to a single position, the tetheredanchor provides additional versatility in allowing selective placementof the embodiment along the strap. By configuring a flat strap with asewn loop at one end through and form a loop on one end of the EnhancedRatchet 100 hooks can be used to provide tension via two hooks.

FIG. 30a and FIG. 30b show an alternative embodiment in both an open andwebbing locked position where the capture-frame assembly of embodiment100 is replaced with an ‘s-shaped’ wire-form to lock the embodiment tothe webbing. The capture-frame assembly of embodiment 100 is replacedwith an alternative capture assembly 3000 with an ‘s-shaped’ capture bar3010 (or wire-form) to lock the embodiment to the webbing. In theembodiment shown wire-form 3000 is oriented to receive a flat strap(webbing—note that herein the terms webbing, flat strap, flat strapwebbing may all be used to describe materials used with embodiments ofthe Enhanced Ratchet) and subsequently rotate into position withs-shaped capture bar 3010 bracing against first capture notch 3020 andsecond capture notch 3030 with an interference fit arrangement,providing securing of the s-shaped capture bar 3010. Additionally, whenthe flat strap is applied, tension on the flat strap will hold thes-shaped capture bar 3010 in the notches.

FIG. 31a and FIG. 31b show an alternative embodiment in both an open andwebbing locked position where the capture-frame assembly of embodiment100 is replaced with a die-cast component utilizing a separate capturering and sidewall embossments 3110 to lock the embodiment to the webbingand hold floating post 3175 in place. FIG. 32a and FIG. 32b show analternative embodiment in both an open and webbing locked position wherethe capture-frame assembly of embodiment 100 is replaced with a formedsheet metal part utilizing a separate capture ring 3220 and cross bar3210 to lock the embodiment to the webbing.

FIG. 33 shows an isometric view of an alternative embodiment thatincorporates a camlock 3310 with the capture-frame assembly in lieu ofthe ratchet portion of Enhanced Ratchet. Camlock 3310 is a spring loadedcamlock, where a pulling force on a flat strap away from the alternativeembodiment of the Enhanced Ratchet causes the camlock 3310 to rotate andclamp. The camlock 3310 is releasable via press area 3320. FIG. 34 showsan isometric view of the alternative embodiment from FIG. 33 configuredwith webbing to form a fixed-end configuration.

FIG. 39a shows chassis parts from previously shown Enhanced Ratchet 100.FIG. 39b shows possible replacement of existing chassis parts fromEnhanced Ratchet 100 with a single chassis part 109. FIG. 40 showschassis 110, chassis pawl bracket 149, and chassis pawl bracket pivotpin 11, the coil spring 201 from alternative chassis configuration 360.This configuration provides for a different way to connect the sides ofthe chassis.

In one embodiment, Enhanced Ratchet 100 contains a chassis sidewall A101, a chassis sidewall B 102, held parallel affixed to each other bymeans of swaged lower shoulder pins 111 and 112, a lever 121, tworatchet wheels 131, the ratchet wheels containing a plurality of teeth132 located peripherally and having a center cross member 138, two hubcrossbars 134 having a semi-circular shape in cross section, two shimwashers 196, two wire-form locks 197, a chassis pivoting pawl bracket141 attached to the chassis sidewalls by means of a swaged pivot pin191, a lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 attached to the lever by means ofa swaged pivot pin 192, and a capture-frame assembly 170, consisting oftwo side-plates, A 171 and B 172 (including curved area 1172, forguiding shoulder pin 173), a swaged center shoulder pin 173, and aswaged lower shoulder pin 113, together securing side-plate A to chassissidewall A and side-plate B to chassis sidewall B respectively. In someplaces, pin 173 is referred to as a second pin. Additionally, toside-plate A is swaged a free-standing post 175. In some descriptionsherein, free-standing post 175 may be referred to as a third pin. Theseaspects are shown in FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3. It is important to note thatall of these aspects are exemplary and may be arranged differently withdifferent parts (or omitted parts) as will occur to one of ordinaryskill in the art. For example, in alternatives, the ratchet wheels maynot be identical; different teeth may be utilized on each one ordifferent size wheels may be utilized, in most cases the wheelsinterface in a useful way with the teeth and the brackets carrying theteeth.

Side-plate A contains a slotted opening 176 allowing both rotational andtranslational displacement of the side-plate about the centered swagedshoulder pin 173. Side-plate B is rigidly secured to chassis sidewall Bby means of the centered swaged shoulder pin 173 and one of the swagedlower shoulder pins 113. Side-plate B contains an open slot 177 along anedge of the plate and an arm support 169.

A torsion spring 194 positionally biases the chassis pivoting pawlbracket 141 to maintain contact with perimeter edge faces 139 of theratchet wheels 131. A torsion spring 195 positionally biases the leverpivoting pawl bracket 151 to maintain contact with perimeter edge faces139 of the ratchet wheels 131. A swaged pivot pin 191 providesattachment and pivot means for the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141. Aswaged pivot pin 192 provides attachment and pivot means for the leverpivoting pawl bracket 151. An additional pin 193, serves as a hard stopfor the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 and as a spring stop for thespring 195 that positionally biases the lever pivoting pawl bracket.Additionally, a liner 161 resides under the lever pivoting pawl bracket151, constrained by the lever pivoting pawl bracket and the pin 192 thatsecures the lever pivoting pawl bracket to the lever 121. The liner 161centers the spring 195 along the pivot pin 192, side-to-side, within thelever pivoting pawl bracket sidewalls 152. A handle 129 permanentlyattaches to the free end of the lever 121. FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3. Notethat in these descriptions, the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 andthe lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 are described as pivoting brackets.In many cases a pivoting bracket may be an effective technique for theEnhanced Ratchet. However, it is not necessary in all cases that thesepivoting brackets be such. To achieve the function for many forms ofoperation of the Enhanced Ratchet, it is necessary to pivot the teeth oneach side of the Enhanced Ratchet, from a position that engages thewheel, to a position that does not engage the wheel. When ratcheting toprovide tension, the teeth on one side of the ratchet slip over theteeth of the wheel while on the other side of the ratchet the teeth holdposition. Then the operation flips, once the lever arms are extendedapart, whereby the teeth on the other side of the ratchet slip over theteeth of the wheel while on the first side of the ratchet the teeth holdposition. Therefore, the mechanism carrying the teeth need notabsolutely be a rotating bracket, but simply a structure that allows theteeth of each side of the ratchet to rotate in and out of engagementfrom the wheel. In many configurations, it is useful to have two sets ofteeth that move in unison, however, various configurations of teeth andwheels may be used, including but not limited to varying the number ofteeth, the size of teeth, the number of wheels, and the size of wheels.

Additionally, a webbing guide 199 and a bottom shield 198 snap-fitbetween selected swaged shoulder pins to aid in directing webbingthrough the embodiment. FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3.

The chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 is secured to the chassissidewalls A and B 101, 102 by means of a pivot pin 191 end swaged orpress-fit or into a circular opening 144 in each of the chassis pivotingpawl bracket sidewalls 142 and extending through a circular opening 103in each of the chassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102. The pivot action ofthe chassis pivoting pawl bracket is actuated by a compressed torsionspring 194, positioned on the swaged pivot pin 191, with the spring legspressing against a swaged lower shoulder pin 111, and the spring centersection pressing against the bottom of the chassis pivoting pawl bracket141. Within the confines bounded by the ratchet wheels 131 and thechassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102, the chassis pivoting pawl bracket141 is free to rotate in either direction 187. FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3.

Constrained within the chassis is a capture-frame assembly 170. Thecapture-frame assembly consists of two side plates, A 171 and B 172, aswaged center shoulder pin 173 movably securing side-plate A through aslot opening 176 in side-plate A to chassis sidewall A 101, and rigidlysecuring side-plate B through circular opening 179 in side-plate B tochassis sidewall B 102. A swaged lower shoulder pin 113 also rigidlysecures side-plate B through a circular opening 174 in side-plate B tochassis sidewall B. Circular openings 107, 108 in each chassis sidewallA and B, positionally locate the swaged shoulder pins. Additionally, afree-standing post 175 is permanently affixed to side-plate A through acircular opening 178 in the side-plate. FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3.

When side-plate A 171 resides in a forward position with respect to thechassis sidewalls A and B, side-plate A rests on top of the swaged lowershoulder pin 113. The swaged lower shoulder pin prevents rotation ofside-plate A whenever side-plate A remains in this position. Concurrentwith the swaged lower shoulder pin preventing rotation of side-plate A,a slot opening 177 in side-plate B constrains the free end of thefree-standing post 175 swaged to side-plate A, providing mechanicalsupport to and preventing forward movement of the free-standing post.This particular configuration of the components comprising thecapture-frame assembly 170 would be considered a closed or lockedposition 180 of the capture-frame assembly (FIG. 11a ).

When side-plate A 171 resides in a rearward position with respect to thechassis sidewalls A and B, the bottom edge of the side plate isdisengaged from the swaged lower shoulder pin 113, thus permittingrotation of side-plate A. Concurrent with side-plate A disengaging fromthe swaged shoulder pin, the free-standing post 175 swaged to side-plateA disengages from the slotted opening 177 in side-plate B. Thisparticular configuration of the components comprising the capture-frameassembly would be considered an unlocked position 181 of thecapture-frame assembly (FIG. 11b ).

In this rearward position, side-plate A, movably secured to the chassissidewall A by means of the swaged center shoulder pin 173, is free torotate about the swaged pin through a displacement approximating 180degrees.

When, from the unlocked position 181, side-plate A 171 is rotated 168approximately 140 degrees, webbing can be inserted through the gap 114formed between the two forward positioned swaged lower shoulder pins112, 113, then through gap 115 formed between one of two swaged lowershoulder pins 113 and subsequently positioned around the free-standingpost 175 swaged to side-plate A. This particular configuration of thecomponents comprising the capture-frame assembly would be considered anopen position 182 of the capture-frame assembly (FIG. 11c , FIG. 12c ).

When side-plate A 171 is rotated 168 further to approximately 200degrees, Enhanced Ratchet can now move in either direction 184 along thelength of webbing configured in the embodiment, the webbing freelymoving around the free-standing post 175 swaged to side-plate A. Thisparticular configuration of the components comprising the capture-frameassembly would be considered a non-restrained position 183 of thecapture-frame assembly (FIG. 11d , FIG. 12d ).

After webbing has been configured in the capture-frame assembly 170, perthe proceeding descriptions (FIG. 12c , FIG. 12d ), Enhanced Ratchet 100can be positionally constrained on the webbing configured in EnhancedRatchet by moving the capture-frame assembly to a locked position 180(FIG. 12a ). This involves drawing side plate A 171 in a direction 188away from Enhanced Ratchet until the slot opening 176 in side-plate Astops against the swaged center shoulder pin 173, then rotating 168side-plate A about the swaged center shoulder pin in a direction towardsthe ratchet end of Enhanced Ratchet. The free-standing post 175 swagedto side-plate A will stop the rotation of side-plate A when it makescontact with the extended arm 169 on side-plate B 172. At this point,side-plate A is then slid toward the front of Enhanced Ratchet, in adirection away from the ratchet end of Enhanced Ratchet, until the slot176 in side-plate A once again is stopped by the swaged center shoulderpin 173. With the side plate A 171 slid to the end 1176 of the slottedopening, the flat straps are locked in place. Concurrent with thisaction, the free-standing post 175 swaged to side-plate A will stopagainst the end of the open slot 177 in side-plate B 172. The action ofmoving the capture-frame assembly to a locked position 180 is aided bythe arm support 169 extending outward from the open slot 177 onside-plate B. The arm support acts as a physical stop to thefree-standing post 175 swaged to side-plate A 171. This stop limits therotational travel of side-plate A.

Note that in the locked or near-locked position, any tensionsubsequently induced in the webbing configured in Enhanced Ratchet, willfurther induce the capture-frame assembly 170 to move to, and/or be heldagainst hard stops. These hard stops being the free-standing post swagedto side-plate A stopped against the end of the slot in side-plate B, theend of the slot in side-plate A stopped against the swaged centershoulder pin. (FIG. 12a , FIG. 15a through FIG. 15f ).

With webbing configured in Enhanced Ratchet, and side-plate A residingin a locked position 180 (FIG. 12a ), movement of Enhanced Ratchet alongthe webbing in the direction indicated by the arrow 284 (FIG. 13, FIG.16g is prevented. Tension induced in the webbing by means of theratcheting action will constrain the capture-frame assembly 170 to thelocked position, thus preventing inadvertent or intentional attempts tomove side-plate A to an unlocked 181 position (FIG. 11b , FIG. 12b ).Unless tension is released from webbing configured in Enhanced Ratchet,the capture-frame assembly cannot be moved to an unlocked position 181or to an open position 182 (FIG. 11c , FIG. 12c ). Note that in manyembodiments, some of which are shown herein, alternative structures maybe substituted for capture-frame assembly 170. Moreover, capture-frameassembly can be deployed outside of the context of ratcheting devices,in any scenario where it is desirable to hold flat strap webbing.

The lever 121 is rotatably secured to the chassis sidewalls A and B 101,102 by means of two hub crossbars 134 extending through opposingopenings 123 in the lever sidewalls 122 and opposing openings 105 in thechassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102. The lever sidewalls overlap thechassis sidewalls A and B positioning both chassis sidewalls inward withrespect to the lever sidewalls 122. The two hub crossbars 134 alsoconstrain two ratchet wheels 131, each ratchet wheel positioned on anopposing end of a hub crossbar by means of two centrally locatedopenings 133 in the ratchet wheel 131. The hub crossbars 134 arepositionally separated from each other by means of a center cross member138 on the ratchet wheel 131. Each ratchet wheel 131 is positionedinternal to the lever sidewalls and external to the chassis sidewall Aand chassis sidewall B, respectively. FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3.

The lever 121, the two hub crossbars 134, and the two ratchet wheels131, are secured positionally to one another and to the chassissidewalls A and B 101, 102 by means of two shim washers 196 and twowire-form locks 197. The shim washers 196 are positioned over opposingends of both hub crossbars 134, next to exterior surfaces of each of thelever sidewalls 122. The wire-form locks 197 are then positioned througha traverse opening 135 located in each end of the hub crossbars 134 andsubsequently deformed to prevent dislodgement from the hub crossbars.FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3.

The grouping comprised of the two hub crossbars 134, the two ratchetswheels 131, and the two wire-form locks 197, while concurrently heldwithin the confines of sidewall openings 123 of the lever 121, andsidewall openings 105 of the chassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102, form asingular unit that is free to rotate in either direction 189 about thelong axes of the hub crossbars 136. The lever 121 also rotates in eitherdirection 185 about the long axes 136 of the hub cross bars. FIGS. 1, 2a, 2 b, 3.

A lever handle 129 is permanently affixed to the end of the lever 121opposite the end secured to the chassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102. Thelever pivoting pawl bracket 151 is rotatably secured to the lever 121,by means of a pivot pin 192 end swaged or press-fit into a circularopening 125 in each lever sidewall 122 and extending through a circularopening 154 in each lever pivoting pawl bracket sidewall 152. Residingdirectly underneath the lever pivoting pawl bracket is a liner 161.Raised areas 165, 166 on the top surface of the liner 161 positionallylocate the liner by means of a complimentary opening 159, and an openingalong the edge 158, located in the top surface of the lever pivotingpawl bracket 151. The liner 161 is also constrained by the pivot pin 192by means of a circular opening 163 located in each of two standingsupports 162 residing on the underside of the liner. The raised areas165, 166 on the liner 161, extending through the top surface of thelever pivoting pawl bracket 151, also serve as visual indicators inpositioning the lever pivoting pawl bracket to initiate webbing tensionrelease. A torsion spring 195 fits over the pivot pin 192 and iscentered on the pin by the standing supports 162 of the liner 161. Thelegs of the torsion spring press against the underside surface of theliner. A pin 193, permanently affixed to the lever 121 through anopening 124 in each of the two lever sidewalls 122, serves as a hardstop for the center portion of the torsion spring 195. The torsionspring biases a tooth detail 153, residing on each lever pivoting pawlbracket sidewall 152, to contact the perimeter edge faces 139 on the tworatchet wheels 131. The pin 193 also serves as a hard stop for the leverpivoting pawl bracket 151, limiting rotational travel available to thepawl bracket and positioning the lever pivoting pawl bracketrotationally to enable subsequent engagement with the chassis pivotingpawl bracket 141. This engagement between the two pawl brackets isrequired to initiate the release of tension from webbing configured inEnhanced Ratchet 100. Within the limits determined by the ratchet wheels131 and the hard stop set by pin 193, the lever pivoting pawl bracket151 is free to rotate in either direction 186. FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3.

Positioning the chassis pawl bracket pivot pin 191 below the hubcrossbars 134 by means of a circular opening 103 in each of the chassissidewalls A and B 101, 102, assures the necessary force required todisengage the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 from the ratchet wheels131 at high webbing tensions is easily attainable. This affords asignificant advantage during webbing tension release resulting in aneasily manageable angular separation between the lever 121 and chassissidewalls A and B 101, 102. FIG. 7a through FIG. 10 b.

Finally, with Enhanced Ratchet 100 in a closed position (FIG. 1), a wireor rigid pin of sufficient length 119 could be inserted through alignedopenings 118 in the chassis pivoting pawl bracket sidewalls 142 andopenings 117 in the chassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102 to preventmovement of the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 with respect to thechassis sidewalls A and B. This serves as a means to lock the ratchetwheels 131, preventing inadvertent tension release or unwanted tamperingof a ratchet tensioned configuration.

In many embodiments, chassis sidewall A, chassis sidewall B, lever,ratchet wheels, side-plate A, side-plate B, chassis pivoting pawlbracket, and the lever pivoting pawl bracket are parts that could befabricated from metal sheet, die stamped, and subsequently formed usingconventional tooling practices. Various steel alloys and tempers couldbe utilized, depending on cost and performance parameters determinedappropriate for any given embodiment size. Enhanced Ratchet 100 depictedherein is intended to utilize 1-inch wide webbing materials. However,Enhanced Ratchet could be scaled larger or smaller to accommodate otherwebbing sizes and other loading requirements.

The lever handle 129, liner, and bottom shield would appropriately befabricated from molded thermoplastic materials. For the lever handle,tooling to produce an insert mold to encapsulate the end of the leverwould be a feasible means to produce a highly durable and cost-effectivepart. The webbing guide could be fabricated by means of inexpensiveextrusion tooling and cut to length.

In many embodiments, the two torsion springs 194, 195 are commonlymanufactured components and could be fabricated from either temperedmusic wire or stainless-steel wire.

In many embodiments, swaged shoulder pins, free-standing post, theswaged-end pivot pins, and pins stops could be machined or forged fromvarious steel alloys and tempers. The intention here would be to swagethe ends on each shoulder pin after assembling the various components.Fixtures or tooling jigs could be utilized in positioning the parts toaid in the swaging operation. Not shown, but easily accomplished wouldbe to replace the single piece swaged shoulder pins with two-piecearrangements, a non-shouldered straight shafted pin slid into asecondary hollow sleeve. Various options exist for both materialselections and fabrication techniques.

Additionally, the pivot pins 191, 192 depicted in Enhanced Ratchet couldbe roll pins, the ends of which could be flared after assembly toprevent dislodgement during field use. This would be appropriate forembodiments targeted for use at higher webbing tensions utilizing lowercost materials. Flaring the ends on the roll pins would accommodate adegree of hole distortion in the mating parts, where holes in both thelever sidewalls and the chassis pivot pawl bracket sidewalls couldpossibly deform under higher loading. This would also be appropriate iflower cost metal alloys were utilized in the fabrication of the leverand the pivoting pawl brackets.

Operation of Specific Embodiments

FIG. 6, FIG. 17. When the lever 121 of Enhanced Ratchet 100 is rotated185 with respect to the chassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102, in adirection increasing the angular separation between the lever and thechassis sidewalls A and B, the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 securedto the lever engages a tooth 132 on each of the two ratchet wheels 131,causing the ratchet wheels and the hub crossbars 134 to rotate as a unitwithin a circular opening 105 in each chassis sidewall A and B. Thechassis pivoting pawl bracket 141, secured to the chassis sidewalls Aand B, pivots back and forth following the toothed profile of therotating ratchet wheels 131. When the direction of the lever rotation185 is reversed, the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 now engages asingular tooth 132 on each of the two ratchet wheels 131, preventingrotation of the ratchet wheels 131 and the hub crossbars 134, while thelever pivoting pawl bracket 151, secured to the lever 121, pivots backand forth, free to follow the respective edge profiles on the twostationary ratchet wheels 131. The rotation of the lever 121 inalternating directions 185 results in a ratcheting action where bothratchet wheels 131 and both hub crossbars 134 rotate in a singulardirection, as a singular unit.

The presence and orientation of the torsion spring 194 attached to thechassis pawl pivot pin 191, and the torsion spring 195 attached to leverpawl pivot pin 192 secured to the lever 121, provide motive forces tobias the tooth detail 153 on the chassis pivoting pawl bracket, and thetooth detail 143 on the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151, to maintaincontinual contact with the edge faces 139 along the toothed profile ofthe ratchet wheels 131. FIG. 2a , FIG. 2b , FIG. 3, FIG. 6.

As shown in FIG. 11a through FIG. 16g , the capture-frame assembly 170is used to removably attach Enhanced Ratchet 100, in a securely fixedposition, anywhere along a length of webbing 240. To attach EnhancedRatchet 100 to the webbing, the lever 121 is first rotated to an openposition, followed by sliding and rotating the capture-frame assembly170 to an open position 182 (FIG. 2a , FIG. 11c ).

A short section of the webbing 240 is folded over onto itself andinserted into the bottom of Enhanced Ratchet 100 through the gap 114between the two forward positioned swaged lower shoulder pins 112, 113.In some places, pin 113 is referred to as a first pin and pin 112 isreferred to as fourth pin. The webbing guide 199 will direct the end ofthe folded over webbing upwards to then pass through a second gap 115between the forward positioned swaged lower shoulder pin 113 and theswaged center shoulder pin 173. In some places herein, gap 115 which isalso an aperture and may be referred to as a first gap. The user thendirects the folded section of webbing to pass under the free-standingpost 175 swaged to side-plate A 171, currently residing in an openposition 182. The end loop formed in the folded section of webbing isthen positioned around the end of the free-standing post 175. Returningthe capture frame assembly, now constraining the end loop of the foldedsection of webbing, to a locked position 180 secures and positionallylocks Enhanced Ratchet 100 onto the section of webbing 240 (FIG. 2b ,FIG. 12a-c , FIG. 15a-h , FIG. 16a-g ).

When webbing is configured in the capture frame assembly 170 of EnhancedRatchet 100, and the capture frame assembly resides in a locked position180, and an overlying section of webbing 242 is stressed to a greatertensile state than an underlying section of webbing 241, movement of theembodiment along the webbing in the direction indicated by the arrow 284is prevented (FIG. 13, FIG. 14a , FIG. 14b , FIG. 15h , FIG. 16g ).

After affixing Enhanced Ratchet 100 to a section of webbing 240, slackin the webbing can be removed by pulling excess webbing back through thetwo swaged lower shoulder pins 112, 113. The smooth cylindrical shape ofeach of the swaged lower shoulder pins protects the webbing, preventingdamage to the webbing as tension in the webbing is increased by means ofthe ratcheting action (FIG. 2b ).

To remove Enhanced Ratchet 100 from the webbing 240, the attachmentprocess shown in FIG. 15a through 15f and FIG. 16a through 16g isreversed. In many scenarios, like at least a portion of those about,tension in the webbing must be released (FIG. 18a through 18e ) prior todetaching Enhanced Ratchet from the webbing.

One method of inducing ratchet tension into a strap 251 involvesattaching Enhanced Ratchet 100 to the strap by means of thecapture-frame assembly 170. The strap, spanning a fixed distance betweentwo anchor locations, has one end securely attached to one anchorlocation 253, the other end routed around the second anchor location 254and back to Enhanced Ratchet 100. That end of the strap is subsequentlyconstrained and tensioned by means of the ratchet portion of EnhancedRatchet 100 (FIG. 19).

Another method of inducing tension into a strap 252 involves attachingEnhanced Ratchet 100 to the strap by means of the capture-frame assembly170. One end of that strap is secured to an anchor location 253. Asecond strap 258, having one end attached to a second anchor location254, is subsequently constrained and tensioned by means of the ratchetportion of Enhanced Ratchet 100 secured to the first strap 252 (FIG.23).

In either method, the ratchet portion of Enhanced Ratchet 100 isutilized to induce tension into the strap.

To utilize the ratcheting means of Enhanced Ratchet 100, the strap inmany scenarios may be initially introduced into the ratchet portion ofthe embodiment. The end, or a folded over section of the strap 250, isinserted through the gap 137 between the two hub crossbars 134 onEnhanced Ratchet 100 (FIG. 17a ). The webbing is then drawn through thegap until all the slack is removed from the strap (FIG. 17b ).Subsequent rotation of the lever 121 in alternating directions 185 willcause the hub cross bars 134 to rotate in a singular direction, windingthe webbing onto the hub crossbars (FIG. 17c ). As the webbing is woundonto the hub crossbars, newly wound webbing will overlap the underlyingwebbing layer, securing the webbing to the hub crossbars. Rotation ofthe lever in alternating directions is continued until the desired levelof tension is achieved (FIG. 17a-17d ).

Engagement of the singular tooth 143 on each sidewall 142 of the chassispivoting pawl bracket 141 with a singular tooth 132 on each ratchetwheel 131 preserves the tension induced in the strap and prevents thehub crossbars 134 and ratchet wheels 131 from rotating in a directionthat would release the tension from the strap and the strap fromEnhanced Ratchet 100 (FIG. 6).

The ratcheting action is similar to current art ratchet devices, in thata lever 121 on the ratchet device is rotated in alternating directions185 to induce strap tension. Also, in similar fashion to the blade endson the sliding brackets in current art ratchet devices, the individualtooth elements 143, 153 on the pivoting pawl brackets 141, 151 engagesingular teeth 132 located on the perimeter of the ratchet wheels 131(FIG. 6). When the lever is rotated, this engagement of teeth 153 on thelever pivoting pawl bracket 151 with teeth on the ratchet wheels 132,induces rotation 189 to the hub crossbars 134 and ratchet wheels 131.And by means of teeth 153 on chassis pivoting pawl bracket, preventsrotation in the reverse direction of the hub crossbars 134 and ratchetwheels 131. FIG. 6, FIG. 17.

The length of the lever 121 provides a mechanical advantage that enablesa significant amount of tension to be induced in the strap as the leveris rotated. Upon completion of the tension inducing ratchet action, thelever 121 is rotated back to a closed position (FIG. 17d ). Anembossment 128 on side-plate B 172 engages a complimentary recess 127molded into the underside of the lever handle 129, to releasably securethe lever in the closed position (FIG. 2a ).

Several advantages arise through the use of the pivoting pawl brackets141, 151. In terms of component durability and integrity of toothengagement, the pivoting pawl brackets 141, 151 afford advantagesunavailable to inferior sliding brackets of current art devices. Two ofthese advantages are minimal part distortion and minimal partmisalignment. These advantages arise from the combined synergism of thepivot pins 191, 192, folds in the pivoting pawl bracket sidewalls 142,152, and close physical proximity of the load bearing componentsinvolved (FIG. 6).

Folds along the sidewalls and along the outward facing surfaces of thepivoting pawl brackets 141, 151 create stiffness at locations where thehighest stresses in the pawl brackets are encountered. And even thoughfolds, from a manufacturing perspective, are sometimes considered atolerance liability, the folds in both pivoting pawl brackets 141, 151do not lie in the tolerance path from the bracket pivot pin locations103, 124 to the contact areas between the pivoting pawl bracket teethand the ratchet wheel teeth. For both the ratchet wheels 131 and thepivoting pawl brackets 141, 151, the tolerance stack-ups arise fromstamped-hole to stamped-edge geometries; the most economical and easilyattainable tolerance controls available to manufacturers. The folds inthe pivoting pawl brackets 141, 151 add strength and stiffness withoutincurring tolerance liability. Additionally, as the pivoting pawlbrackets 141, 151 wear, there is less risk of destroying the means fortension release as is possible in current art.

In current art devices, wear to either the eccentric shaped end of thelever, or actual cuts induced in the blade ends through repeated tensionrelease at or near the rated working load of the ratchet device, willeventually limit the travel of the sliding chassis bracket such thatdisengagement of the sliding bracket from the ratchet wheel teeth is nolonger possible. In Enhanced Ratchet 100 described herein, wear toeither the ratchet wheel teeth or to the chassis pivoting pawl bracketwill only result in those components moving closer to each other beforethe initiation of tension release.

As previously described, sliding brackets in a current art ratchetdevice can pivot somewhat about their spring constraints, which aretypically located a comparatively large distance away from theengagement interface at the load bearing blade ends. This exacerbatesboth the misalignment potential and the damage potential for the loadbearing blade ends on the sliding brackets.

The pivoting pawl brackets 141, 151 on the other hand, are significantlyconstrained from extraneous movement. The pivot pins 191, 192 are inclose proximity to where the load bearing tooth engagements occur,significantly diminishing any potential for damage arising frommisalignment between the load bearing teeth 132, 143, 153 (FIG. 6).

Secondly, the pivot pin 191 securing the chassis pivoting pawl bracket141 to the chassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102 ensures that the contactengagement between the ratchet wheel teeth 132, and each tooth 143 onopposing sidewalls 142 of the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 occursimultaneously. Thus, load imbalances are virtually eliminated. Contrastthis with current art ratchet devices where damage prone load imbalancesare prevalent between the ratchet wheel teeth and the sliding bracketblade ends. This holds true for the lever 121, the lever pivot pin 192,and the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 as well.

Finally, side-to-side movement of the pivoting pawl brackets 141, 151 isconfined between the sidewalls of the lever 122 and the chassissidewalls A and B 101, 102. The ratchet wheels 131 are to be fabricatedfrom material having a thickness greater than that used for the pivotingpawl brackets 141, 151. This ensures the tooth detail 143, 153 on eachpivoting pawl bracket sidewall 142, 152 will make reliable contact withthe ratchet wheel teeth 132. Such an arrangement allows fold toleranceissues arising from the manufacture of the pivoting pawl brackets 141,151 to be easily accommodated.

The ratcheting action employed by Enhanced Ratchet 100 is used to inducetension into webbing. The webbing 250, 251, while confined within theembodiment, is also in some fashion secured to, or around, anchorlocations a distance away from the embodiment. As previously mentioned,a typical current art ratchet device, in a fixed-end configuration 256,has one of two straps used in the configuration permanently affixed tothe device. Securing the webbing to an anchor location, by default,means securing the ratchet device to the same anchor location. EnhancedRatchet 100 is not permanently affixed to the straps used in theconfiguration, and as such, provides a much-varied means for positioningthe embodiment on a strap and configuring straps lengths for subsequenttensioning (FIG. 19 through FIG. 29).

FIG. 18 shows a sequence of isometric views depicting a step-wiseprogression for releasing tension from webbing 250 configured inEnhanced Ratchet 100. Rotating the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151,using a thumb on the thumb edge 164 (FIG. 3), while moving the lever 121towards an open position (FIG. 5), allows the tab 155 and semi-piercedembossment 156 on the backend of the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 tobe rotated to a position to engage the cutout 147 located on the topsurface of the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141. Slightly reversing therotation direction of the lever 121 will allow the tab 155 andsemi-pierced embossment 156 on the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 tofully engage the cutout 147 in the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141.Releasing the thumb from the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 permits thespring-biased lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 to seat against the reliefedge 148 on the cutout 147 of the chassis pivot pawl bracket 141. Atthis point the two pivoting pawl brackets 141, 151 are interlocked bymeans of a tab-in-slot arrangement (FIGS. 7a, 7b and FIGS. 9a, 9b ).

Actual tension release now occurs by drawing the lever 121 and chassissidewalls A and B 101, 102 together. With the lever pivoting pawlbracket 151 engaged with chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 as describedabove, movement of the lever towards the chassis sidewalls A and B willcause the lever pivoting pawl bracket 141 to move the chassis pivotingpawl bracket 151 away from the ratchet wheels 131, disengaging the toothon each chassis pivoting pawl bracket sidewall 143 from the engagedtooth 132 on each ratchet wheel 131 (FIG. 10a , FIG. 10b ).

With the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 having previously beendisengaged from the ratchet wheels 131 (FIG. 5, FIG. 9b ) and now withthe chassis pivoting pawl bracket 141 disengaged from the ratchet wheels131, no means remain to prevent rotational movement of the hub crossbars134 and the ratchet wheels 131 (FIG. 10b ). The existing tension in thewebbing will cause the hub crossbars and ratchet wheels to rotate in thedirection opposite the direction from the prior ratcheting action, thusreleasing stored tension from the webbing. The mechanical advantageafforded by the lever and the two pivoting pawl bracket geometriesrequire only a modest input of force to release hundreds of pounds ofinduced webbing tension. The entire release action, start to finish, iseasily accomplished using a single hand.

FIGS. 8a, 8b and FIGS. 10a, 10b reveal a major difference between acurrent art ratchet tensioning device, utilizing sliding brackets forratchet tensioning and tension release, and Enhanced Ratchet 100,utilizing pivoting pawl brackets 141, 151. As described elsewhere,releasing tension from a sliding bracket current art ratchet device canbe particularly frustrating. A key contributor to this frustration isthe lever in a sliding bracket ratchet device has to open approximately170° to execute tension release, FIG. 36 Prior Art. At tension release,the lever is moving away rotationally from the device chassis ratherthan towards the device chassis. At higher tension levels, themechanical advantage afforded the lever action in the webbing tensionrelease scheme is compromised if the ratchet device is not physicallyrestrained while engaging the lever to release the induced webbingtension. Thus, the analogy of the bow and arrow apparatus referred toearlier.

When releasing ratchet induced webbing tension from Enhanced Ratchet100, the lever 121 is moved toward the chassis 101 rather than away fromthe chassis (FIG. 7a ). This creates an improved ergonomic arrangementfor the user, and a major advantage when compared to current artdevices. In releasing webbing tension, compromises to the mechanicaladvantage afforded by the lever 121 are virtually eliminated as thelever 121 and chassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102 are drawn togetherrather than pushed apart. Forces in the lever and the chassis sidewallsA and B are self-contained, moving toward each other through a smallangular displacement, rather than moving away from each other in anunbounded manner (FIG. 18c , FIG. 18d , FIG. 18e ).

In the released state, the hub crossbars 134 are free to rotate ineither direction 189, allowing webbing configured in Enhanced Ratchet100 to be easily withdrawn from the hub crossbars 134. The area aroundthe hub crossbars 134 is unobstructed, enabling convenient access whenremoving webbing from Enhanced Ratchet 100. FIG. 10b , FIG. 18 e.

Releasing stored energy from a ratchet tensioned strap configuration canbe quite an event. The recoil from the release of the energy issignificant. The counterintuitive direction of lever travel to executetension release in the current art sliding-bracket-based ratchet designscan easily put a user at risk. Having to push on the lever to executethe release of hundreds of pounds of stored energy is precarious to saythe least. At the moment of release, a user has little control as towhere the ratchet device moves. The device literally jumps. Manyinstances of physical injury have occurred in trying to release webbingtension from devices common in the current art. This especially can bethe case when user access to the ratchet device is restricted by closeconfines of the immediate environment. Here, the positional restrictionon placement of the ratchet device by means of being sewn to theanchoring hook via a short webbing segment exacerbates the situationgreatly.

Contrast this to Enhanced Ratchet 100, which enables a safer and farmore natural means of moving lever to chassis through a small angulardisplacement to release webbing tension (FIG. 7a , FIG. 8a ).

The semi-pierce embossment 156 on the tab 155 of the lever pivoting pawlbracket 151 provides an additional safeguard during tension release. Thesemi-pierce embossment will catch on the edge of the cutout relief 148in the chassis pivoting pawl bracket, absorbing much of the recoilenergy, while also preventing disengagement of the lever pivoting pawlbracket 141 from the chassis pivoting pawl bracket 151 (FIG. 10a , FIG.10b ). Furthermore, the release action as described above isself-contained, held in one hand and confined to hand action only, nopushing involved. This enables the user to control the tension releaseevent rather than having the tension release event control the user.

Current art ratchet devices utilizing soft metal die-casted levers aresusceptible to excessive wear occurring on the lever-end eccentric.Current art ratchet devices utilizing thin stamped sheet metal levers,particularly at webbing tensions close to rated load limits, aresusceptible to either deformation of the lever-end eccentric or thelever-end eccentric cutting into the blade ends on the chassis slidingbracket. In these cases, the ability of the lever-end eccentric toactuate tension release can be readily compromised, rendering the deviceuseless.

At the initiation of webbing tension release in Enhanced Ratchet 100,wear occurring on the pivoting pawl bracket teeth 143, 153 and theratchet wheel teeth 132, will cause the angle of separation between thelever 121 and the chassis sidewalls A and B 101, 102 to decreaseslightly. This will not compromise the ability of the embodiment toaffect tension release, even at higher tension levels. Thus, theuser-friendly release action will remain reliably effective as componentwear occurs throughout the life of the embodiment. FIG. 7a through FIG.10 b.

FIG. 5 depicts Enhanced Ratchet 100 in free-spin. Free-spin enables thelever 121 to be rotated in either direction 185 without engaging the hubcrossbars 134 and ratchet wheels 131, which would otherwise induceratchet tension into the webbing. The first part of the progression inFIG. 18 depicts the steps to position Enhanced Ratchet 100 in free-spin.Free-spin is enabled by rotating 186 the lever pivoting pawl bracket 151away from the ratchet wheels 131, disengaging the teeth 153 on the leverpivoting pawl bracket 151 from the teeth 132 on the ratchet wheels 131.Free-spin serves two purposes. The first purpose is to enablepositioning of the lever 121 and lever pivoting pawl bracket 151 toinitiate webbing tension release, as shown in FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b . Thesecond purpose is to allow repositioning of the lever 121 to a morefavorable position when ratcheting tension into the webbing, as shown inFIG. 5. This is of particular importance at higher webbing tensionlevels.

Configurations of Enhanced Ratchet

FIG. 19 through FIG. 29 depict various progressions using EnhancedRatchet 100 in configuring webbing and straps. The Figures areself-explanatory and reveal the versatility of Enhanced Ratchet 100 interms of usability. Such versatility is unmatched in ratchet devicespopulating the art today.

In FIGS. 19a and 19b a flat strap having a looped end is shown affixedto an anchor position 253, by passing the flat strap through the loopedend. The configuration is pulled tight in FIG. 19c . In 19 d, a portionof the flat strap 251 is doubled ahead of the Enhanced Ratchet 100. Thedoubled portion of the flat strap is then passed through the spacebetween swaged lower shoulder pin 113 and shoulder pin 173 in FIG. 19e .In FIG. 19f , the doubled portion is then placed around free-standingpost 175. In FIG. 19g , the Enhanced Ratchet 100 may be slid up and downthe flat strap 251 until free-standing post 175 is rotated into openslot 177 at which point the flat strap is held in position. The oppositeend of flat strap 251 is then passed around anchor position 254 and intothe Enhanced Ratchet and ratcheted tight in FIGS. 19h and 19 i.

A similar procedure is used in FIGS. 20a-20h , where instead of having alooped end flat strap, an unlooped flat strap 250 is used. In thisconfiguration, flat strap 250 is looped around anchor location 253. Thenin FIG. 20b , two layers of the flat strap are both doubled together andthen passed through the space between swaged lower shoulder pin 113 andshoulder pin 173 in FIG. 20c . In FIG. 20d the doubled portion is thisplaced around free-standing post 175. In FIG. 20e , the Enhanced Ratchet100 may be slid up and down the flat strap 251 until free-standing post175 is rotated into open slot 177 in FIG. 20f at which point the flatstrap is held in position. The opposite end of flat strap 251 is thenpassed around anchor position 254 and into the Enhanced Ratchet andratcheted tight in FIGS. 20g and 20 h.

In the configuration of FIGS. 21a-21h , flat strap 251 is fixed toEnhanced Ratchet 100. In FIG. 21b , the looped end of the flat strap 251is passed through the space between swaged lower shoulder pin 113 andshoulder pin 173 in FIG. 21c . In FIG. 21d the loop portion is thisplaced around free-standing post 175. In FIGS. 21e and 21f , thefree-standing post 175 is rotated into open slot 177 in FIG. 20f atwhich point the free-standing post 175 is held in position. The oppositeend of flat strap 251 is then passed around anchor positions 253, 254,259 and into the Enhanced Ratchet and ratcheted tight in FIGS. 21g and21 h.

In the configuration of FIGS. 22a-22h , flat strap 250 is fixed toEnhanced Ratchet 100. In FIG. 22a the flat strap is looped/folded. InFIG. 22b , the looped end of the flat strap 251 is passed through thespace between swaged lower shoulder pin 113 and shoulder pin 173 in FIG.22c . In FIG. 22d the loop portion is this placed around free-standingpost 175. In FIGS. 22e and 22f , the free-standing post 175 is rotatedinto open slot 177 as in FIG. 20f at which point the flat strap is heldin position. The opposite end of flat strap 251 is then passed aroundanchor positions 253, 254, 259 and into the Enhanced Ratchet andratcheted tight in FIGS. 22g and 22 h.

In FIGS. 23a and 23b a flat strap having a looped end is show affixed toan anchor position 253, by passing the flat strap through the loopedend. The configuration is pulled tight in FIG. 23c . In 23 d, a portionof the flat strap 251 is doubled ahead of the Enhanced Ratchet 100. Thedoubled portion of the flat strap is then passed through the spacebetween swaged lower shoulder pin 113 and shoulder pin 173 in FIG. 23e .In FIG. 23f , the doubled portion is this placed around free-standingpost 175. In FIG. 23g , the free-standing post 175 is rotated into openslot 177 at which point the flat strap is held in position. In 23 h asecond flat strap 258 is hooked to an anchor location 254 and thenratcheted into Enhanced Ratchet 100.

In FIGS. 24a and 24b a flat strap having a looped end is show affixed tohook 255, by passing the flat strap through the looped end. Theconfiguration is pulled tight in FIG. 23c and the hook hooked aroundanchor location 253. In 24 d, a portion of the flat strap 251 is doubledahead of the Enhanced Ratchet 100. The doubled portion of the flat strapis then passed through the space between swaged lower shoulder pin 113and shoulder pin 173 in FIG. 24e . In FIG. 24f , the doubled portion isthis placed around free-standing post 175. In FIG. 24g , thefree-standing post 175 is rotated into open slot 177 at which point thefree-standing post 175 is held in position. In 24 h a second flat strap258 is hooked to an anchor location 254 and then ratcheted into EnhancedRatchet 100.

In FIGS. 25a-25h , where instead of having a looped end flat strap, anunlooped flat strap 250 is used. In this configuration, flat strap 250is looped around anchor location 253. Then in FIG. 25b , two layers ofthe flat strap are both doubled together and then passed through thespace between swaged lower shoulder pin 113 and shoulder pin 173 in FIG.25c . In FIG. 25d the doubled portion is this placed aroundfree-standing post 175. In FIG. 25e , the free-standing post 175 isrotated into open slot 177 at which point the flat strap is held inposition. A second flat strap 258 is then hooked around anchor position254 and into the Enhanced Ratchet and ratcheted tight in FIG. 25 f.

In FIGS. 26a and 26b a flat strap having a looped end is show affixed tohook 255, by passing the flat strap through the looped end. Theconfiguration is pulled tight in FIG. 23c and the hook hooked aroundanchor location 253. In 26 d, a portion of the flat strap 251 is doubledahead of the Enhanced Ratchet 100. The doubled portion of the flat strapis then passed through the space between swaged lower shoulder pin 113and shoulder pin 173 in FIG. 26e . In FIG. 26f , the doubled portion isthis placed around free-standing post 175. In FIG. 26g , thefree-standing post 175 is rotated into open slot 177 at which point theflat strap is held in position. In FIG. 26h flat strap 251 is loopedaround hook 255, which is hooked to an anchor location 254 and thenratcheted into Enhanced Ratchet 100.

In FIGS. 27a and 27b , the looped end of a flat strap 251 is overlappedwith the flat strap and then passed through the space between swagedlower shoulder pin 113 and shoulder pin 173. In FIG. 27c , the doubledportion is this placed around free-standing post 175 and the remainingflat strap is passed through. In FIG. 27d , the free-standing post 175is rotated into open slot 177 at which point the flat strap is held inposition. In 27 e the webbing 251 is passed around anchor location 253and anchor location 254 and back into Enhanced Ratchet 100 and ratchetedtight. The force 515 upwards and downwards is twice the force 510 oneach area of the flat strap.

In FIGS. 28a and 28b , the looped end of a flat strap 252 is overlappedwith itself, wrapped around anchor point 253 and then passed through thespace between swaged lower shoulder pin 113 and shoulder pin 173. InFIG. 28c , the doubled portion is this placed around free-standing post175. In FIG. 28d , the free-standing post 175 is rotated into open slot177 at which point the flat strap is held in position. In 28 e thewebbing 258 is hooked around anchor location 254 and into EnhancedRatchet 100. In FIG. 28f , the webbing is ratcheted tight.

In FIGS. 29a and 29b , the looped end of a flat strap 252 is overlappedwith itself, wrapped around s-hook 255 which is hung on anchor point 253and then flat strap is passed through the space between swaged lowershoulder pin 113 and shoulder pin 173. In FIG. 29c , the doubled portionis this placed around free-standing post 175. In FIG. 29d , thefree-standing post 175 is rotated into open slot 177 at which point theflat strap is held in position. In 29 e the webbing 258 is hooked aroundanchor location 254 and into Enhanced Ratchet 100. In FIG. 28f , thewebbing is ratcheted tight.

Many current art ratchet devices, having a permanently attached hook,locate the hook close to the device. When anchored in confined quarters,operation of the ratchet lever can become quite challenging. Ofparticular importance is the ability to add Enhanced Ratchet 100 intothe strap setup after the strap has been positioned for use. It is oftenmuch easier to work with straps without having to deal with the size andweight of a permanently attached ratchet device.

Enhanced Ratchet 100 completely alters the landscape of ratchet devices.Ratchet devices are specifically intended to induce high levels oftension into secured straps. A single strap fixed-end configuration 256(FIG. 19), enabled by the capture-frame assembly 170, effectivelydoubles the tensioning capacity of the ratcheting action of the device(FIG. 17d ). This capability alone enables the fabrication of ratchetdevices smaller in size and lighter in weight, equaling or exceeding theperformance of larger, heavier, current art devices.

Combined with the ability to easily and adjustably position the ratchetdevice anywhere along the length of a strap (FIG. 12d ), to use strapsinterchangeably and specifically suited to the task at hand, toselectively switch between fixed-end 256 or loop 257 configurations,having the ability to reliably secure to whatever anchor situations arepresented—all testify to the advanced capabilities of the embodimentspresented herein.

FIG. 30a through FIG. 32b depict alternative embodiments utilizingvarious means to duplicate the functional attributes of thecapture-frame assembly 170 of Enhanced Ratchet 100.

FIG. 38a and FIG. 38b depict an alternative embodiment comprised of ahybrid chassis 435, incorporating a capture-frame assembly 170,permanently connected to a current art style ratchet device by means ofa short length of webbing sewn to the device. While somewhat unwieldly,the embodiment does show that modifying a current art ratchet deviceaccordingly would enable many of the webbing configurations madepossible in the new art by means of the capture-frame assembly 170.

The embodiment 380 as shown in FIG. 33 and FIG. 34 incorporates thecapture-frame assembly 170 into a cam-lock style webbing tensioningdevice. While not specifically a ratchet device, the embodiment is atensioning device and shows how a typical cam-lock device could beimproved by means of the capture-frame assembly.

In some embodiments of the capture frame assembly 170, the device may beused in an alternative configuration not with a ratchet, or with a moretraditional ratchet. The capture frame assembly 170 is usable in avariety of contexts.

Although embodiments of the Enhanced Ratchet are in many contextsdeployed in the context of webbing flat straps, the principles anddesigning of the ratcheting lever arms and rotating brackets maydeployed in a variety of contexts not including flat straps.Additionally, in some contexts, the rotational mating of the brackets inorder to release tension on the flat straps need not be enabled and auser may be required to push the brackets in unison or separately torelease the flat straps. Although this may be less convenient, it mayprovide for a usable alternative.

While specific embodiments have been described in detail in theforegoing detailed description, it will be appreciated by those skilledin the art that various modifications and alternatives to those detailscould be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosureand the broad inventive concepts thereof. It is understood, therefore,that the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the particularexamples and implementations disclosed herein but is intended to covermodifications within the spirit and scope thereof as defined by theappended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.

What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent ofthe United States is:
 1. A ratchet device, comprising: a ratchet wheel;a first lever, the first lever rotatably interconnected with the ratchetwheel; a second lever, the second lever rotatably interconnected withthe ratchet wheel; a first pivoting bracket, the first pivoting bracketpivotally interconnected with the first lever; and a second pivotingbracket, the second pivoting bracket pivotally interconnected with thesecond lever; wherein the first pivoting bracket has a first positionwhere the first pivoting bracket is rotated to engage the ratchet wheeland a second position where the first pivoting bracket is rotated todisengage from the ratchet wheel, wherein the second pivoting brackethas a third position where the second pivoting bracket is rotated toengage the ratchet wheel and a fourth position where the second pivotingbracket is rotated to disengage from the ratchet wheel, and wherein thefirst pivoting bracket is configured to engage the second pivotingbracket and when the first pivoting bracket and the second pivotingbracket are engaged, the first pivoting bracket is held in the secondposition and the second pivoting bracket is held in the fourth position.2. The ratchet device of claim 1, wherein when the first pivotingbracket is in the second position and the second pivoting bracket is inthe fourth position, the ratchet wheel freely rotates.
 3. The ratchetdevice of claim 1, wherein the ratchet wheel includes a plurality ofteeth and the first pivoting bracket includes a first tooth that isshaped to interface with the plurality of teeth.
 4. The ratchet deviceof claim 3, wherein the second pivoting bracket includes a second toothand the second tooth is shaped to interface with the plurality of teeth.5. The ratchet device of claim 4, wherein the first tooth is shaped tofit between a third and fourth tooth of the plurality of teeth, suchthat the first tooth entirely fills the void between the third andfourth tooth.
 6. The ratchet device of claim 1, wherein the firstpivoting bracket includes a tab on a first end opposite the second end,the second end engaging the ratchet wheel, the tab shaped to engage anarea in the second pivoting bracket such that the first and secondpivoting bracket hold together when the ratchet wheel freely rotates. 7.The ratchet device of claim 1, further comprising: a capture assembly,the capture assembly configured to capture a flat strap in a securefashion.
 8. The ratchet device of claim 7, wherein the second leverincludes a first and second side plate, the capture assembly locatedbetween the first and second side plate.
 9. The ratchet device of claim8, wherein the capture assembly includes a third side plate and a fourthside plate, a first pin, a second pin, and a third pin, the first pininterconnecting the first and second side plate and the third sideplate, the second pin interconnecting the first and second side plate,the third side plate, and the fourth side plate, the third pin mountedon the fourth side plate.
 10. The ratchet device of claim 9, wherein thefourth side plate is interconnected to the second pin via a slottedopening allowing the fourth side plate to rotate and slide about thesecond pin.
 11. The ratchet device of claim 10, wherein the third sideplate includes a slotted capture area, the slotted capture areaconfigured to removably capture the third pin when the fourth side plateis slid to a first end of the slotted opening.
 12. The ratchet device ofclaim 11, wherein the third side plate further includes a curved area,adjacent to the slotted capture area, oriented to guide the third pin.13. The ratchet device of claim 12, wherein a flat strap oriented in afirst gap between the first and second pin, around the third pin, andback through the first gap is held when the third pin is in the slottedcapture area.
 14. A method of using the ratchet device of claim 1, themethod comprising: inserting a flat strap into the ratchet device;ratcheting the ratchet device to increase tension by moving at least oneof the first lever and the second lever; pivoting the first pivotingbracket and the second pivoting bracket to release tension on the flatstrap; and removing the flat strap.
 15. The method of claim 14, whereinthe ratchet device further includes a capture assembly, the captureassembly configured to capture a flat strap in a secure fashion, whereinthe second lever includes a first and second side plate, the captureassembly located between the first and second side plate and the captureassembly includes a third side plate, a fourth side plate, a first pin,a second pin, and a third pin, the first pin interconnecting the firstand second side plate and the third side plate, the second pininterconnecting the first and second side plate, the third side plate,and the fourth side plate, the third pin mounted on the fourth sideplate, the fourth side plate is interconnected to the second pin via aslotted opening allowing the fourth side plate to rotate and slide aboutthe second pin.
 16. A ratchet device, comprising: a ratchet wheel; afirst lever, the first lever rotatably interconnected with the ratchetwheel; a second lever, the second lever rotatably interconnected withthe ratchet wheel; a first pivoting bracket, the first pivoting bracketpivotally interconnected with the first lever; a second pivotingbracket, the second pivoting bracket pivotally interconnected with thesecond lever; and a capture assembly, the capture assembly configured tocapture a flat strap in a secure fashion, wherein the second leverincludes a first and second side plate, the capture assembly locatedbetween the first and second side plate and the capture assemblyincludes a third side plate, a fourth side plate, a first pin, a secondpin, and a third pin, the first pin interconnecting the first and secondside plate and the third side plate, the second pin interconnecting thefirst and second side plate, the third side plate, and the fourth sideplate, the third pin mounted on the fourth side plate, the fourth sideplate is interconnected to the second pin via a slotted opening allowingthe fourth side plate to rotate and slide about the second pin; whereinthe first pivoting bracket has a first position where the first pivotingbracket is rotated to engage the ratchet wheel and a second positionwhere the first pivoting bracket is rotated to disengage from theratchet wheel and the second pivoting bracket has a third position wherethe second pivoting bracket is rotated to engage the ratchet wheel and afourth position where the second pivoting bracket is rotated todisengage from the ratchet wheel.
 17. The ratchet device of claim 16,wherein the third side plate includes a slotted capture area, theslotted capture area configured to removably capture the third pin whenthe fourth side plate is slid to a first end of the slotted opening andthe third side plate further includes a curved area, adjacent to theslotted capture area, oriented to guide the third pin.
 18. The ratchetdevice of claim 16, wherein the first pivoting bracket is configured toengage the second pivoting bracket and when the first pivoting bracketand the second pivoting bracket are engaged, the first pivoting bracketis held in the second position and the second pivoting bracket is heldin the fourth position.
 19. A ratchet device, comprising: a ratchetwheel; a first lever, the first lever rotatably interconnected with theratchet wheel; a second lever, the second lever rotatably interconnectedwith the ratchet wheel; a first pivoting bracket, the first pivotingbracket pivotally interconnected with the first lever; and a secondpivoting bracket, the second pivoting bracket pivotally interconnectedwith the second lever; wherein the first pivoting bracket is configuredto engage the second pivoting bracket and when the first pivotingbracket and the second pivoting bracket are engaged, the first pivotingbracket and the second pivoting bracket are held in a positiondisengaged from the ratchet wheel.
 20. The ratchet device of claim 19,further comprising: a capture assembly configured to capture a flatstrap in a secure fashion, wherein the second lever includes a first andsecond side plate, the capture assembly located between the first andsecond side plate and the capture assembly includes a third side plate,a fourth side plate, a first pin, a second pin, and a third pin, thefirst pin interconnecting the first and second side plate and the thirdside plate, the second pin interconnecting the first and second sideplate, the third side plate, and the fourth side plate, the third pinmounted on the fourth side plate, the fourth side plate isinterconnected to the second pin via a slotted opening allowing thefourth side plate to rotate and slide about the second pin.